North Pacific, Hawaiian Islands, Pre-Contact period, ca. 15th to 18th century CE. This is a massive volcanic stone hand shaped into a concave and indented shape from years of use as a mortar. The shallow incurvation of the sides serves as a basin for grinding foodstuffs or medicinal ingredients. The stone has accumulated a rich amount of marine encrustations from time spent in the ocean - thick sea worm casings and white calcified material. Both sides have been worked, and the stone lies flat and stable when placed on the ground. Size: 15" L x 4" W x 12" H (38.1 cm x 10.2 cm x 30.5 cm); 9.5" H (24.1 cm) on included custom stand.
Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection
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#148507
Condition
Some abrasions and chips commensurate with age and use. Heavy mineral deposits and active flaking to sea encrustations when handled. Old inventory number on surface.