Oak Pepper Mortar from South China – 19th Century

This wonderfully characterful 19th century oak mortar comes from southern China and would have been used for pounding pepper, spices and other foodstuffs. Carved from a single substantial section of oak, generations of use have left the timber deeply worn, gnarled and beautifully textured. Several old iron repairs hold historic splits in the wood together and form an important part of the mortar's character and history. Now retired from its original purpose, its sculptural form and rich, weathered surface make it an unusual decorative object. It also works particularly well as a planter or waste paper bin. Origin: South China Date: 19th century Materials: Oak and iron Features: Hollowed from a substantial section of oak; deeply worn and textured surface; historic iron repairs Condition: Good antique condition with extensive age-related wear, cracks and old iron repairs consistent with generations of use Dimensions: W40 × D39 × H56 cm Weight: 23.25 kg