Chinese Stone Crushing Wheel

A stone wheel with a hole in the middle, and ages of work in it.

This crushing wheel was made of stone in Shandong Province, China, and is dated in the record to the 18th century or earlier. Stone wheels like this were commonly used to crush or grind grain, herbs or other materials, usually turning on a pole or axle. The disc is rough and slightly uneven, with a round central hole. Its granular surface is a sandy grey with a stripe of rust-red along one side, and the edges have the softness that comes from use.

About 26 inches across and 4 thick. A garden piece that does not need a garden.