Stone Kitchen Mortar

Carved from a single block of limestone, this stone vessel is an early 19th century mortar once used to grind spices, herbs, and other condiments. The hand chiseled, rustic exterior is worn gorgeously with age while the interior is smooth from daily use in a provincial, Qing dynasty kitchen. Today, the stone adds incredible texture to modern interiors as a tabletop planter, salt cellar, or sculptural object.