Small Rustic 19th-Century French Goblet-Shaped Mortar w/ Pestle - 7"

This small rustic 19th-century hand turned wooden mortar features a goblet- or chalice-shaped silhouette, with a deep bowl raised on a pedestal foot and finely turned bands around the rim and body. Its deep brown surface has been richly darkened by time and use, while numerous age-related splits run vertically through the mortar. These are the result of the thick, solid wood gradually shrinking and moving as it dried over many decades, with repeated use contributing further to its irregular, rustic surface. Wear and abrasion throughout record its long working life. 

The accompanying turned-wood pestle has a long tapered handle with  turned knob finial designed for a secure grip, and broad rounded working end, both smoothed by repeated use. Given the extensive cracking, the mortar is best considered decorative today.

Its deeply aged surface, irregular silhouette and visible repairs of time give it a particularly authentic rustic character, making it a wonderful accent on open kitchen shelving or a countertop alongside antique pottery and woodenware.