Chinese Rough-Hewn Trough

Hacked from rock, rounded at the corners, and fitted with a drain hole.

Stoneworkers in Shanxi Province, China, shaped this rough-hewn trough in the 19th century. Stone troughs like these were commonly used for animal feed and water, or for household chores. This one is oval in plan with a flat back and small ears at the corners, and the chisel marks still show on its pale gray sides. A round drain hole sits low on the front, stained with rust.

About 34 inches long, 20 inches deep and 12 inches high. Plant it, or just admire the chisel work.