Indian Stone Butter Pot

A stout, earthy pot with a thick rolled lip and a belly like a bell.

This carved stone butter pot is from Rajasthan, India, and dates to the mid 19th century. Carved stone vessels are shaped by chipping, drilling and smoothing, and the finish usually keeps the tool marks and natural color of the stone. A short, squat vessel with a thick, rounded rim and a flared body that widens toward the base. The surface is a dusty, mottled brown with slight glossy patches. The wall looks rough and hand-built. It is 3.5 inches wide and 3 high.

Rough, round, and wonderfully at ease with itself.