Chinese Mortar or Grinding Vessel: With Handles

Handles the size of knuckles, and a diagonal pattern cut by hand.

Chinese stonecutters of Shanxi Province made this mortar or grinding vessel in stone in the late 19th century. Mortars with lug handles were commonly used for pounding grain and spices, and the handles made them easier to move. The body is an urn shape with a short neck and two small ears at the rim, and diagonal chisel lines cover the belly under a ridged band. The stone is a dusky grey with brown streaks.

About 17 inches tall. A good planter for something with ideas.