Provincial Rice Measure

This rustic container was made over a hundred years ago to measure and hold a dou of rice, an ancient Chinese measurement. Hand-crafted of pine wood, the vessel has gracefully swelling sides and a straight handle burnished from the touch of many hands over time. While many rice measures relied on cast iron brackets for structural support, the corners of this example are seamed together with incredibly fine dovetail joinery. The wood appears to be practically woven together with how minuscule the interlocking joints are. The rice measure has aged wonderfully with a smooth, soft finish developing from the touch of hands over time.

Some wear to corner joinery.