Auspicious Elephant Stone Mortar

This 19th century sculptural container, carved by hand from a single block of marble, was originally used as a mortar—likely in a Chinese apothecary to grind herbal medicines. It has six sides, an auspicious number, and a handle in the shape of an elephant with a long trunk, a symbol of wisdom and strength and an animal considered auspicious to Buddhists. The stone has aged beautifully over time with a texture that calls to be touched.