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Late 19th-Century American Turned-Wood Mortar and Pestle, Circa 1890

$895
£671.85
€783.24
CA$1,267.50
A$1,271.01
CHF 735.35
MX$15,476.57
NOK 8,533.47
SEK 8,697.58
DKK 5,855.71

About the Item

A handsome late-19th-century American turned-wood mortar and pestle, dating to circa 1890. Originally made as a functional household implement, this characterful piece combines traditional craftsmanship with the sculptural presence of early American treenware. The mortar has an elegant urn-shaped silhouette with a gently rounded body, narrow lower section, and raised circular foot. Carefully turned and finished by hand, its base is comfortably shaped for gripping while ingredients are ground with the accompanying pestle. The long pestle has a substantial rounded working end and a beautifully worn surface that complements the mortar. Mortars of this type were indispensable domestic tools, traditionally used for crushing spices, dried herbs, grains, seeds, and medicinal preparations. Here, the practical form has acquired an expressive decorative quality through more than a century of use. The wood displays a rich, warm brown patina, visible grain, softened edges, and subtle variations in color that cannot be replicated in newly made objects. The mortar measures 7 inches high and 4.5 inches in diameter. The pestle measures approximately 9.5 inches long by 2.5 inches at its widest point. When the pestle is positioned inside the mortar, the overall display height is approximately 11.25 inches. Age-related cracks run vertically along the sides of the mortar and are clearly documented in the photographs. These separations are consistent with the natural drying and movement of antique wood and contribute to the piece’s authentic, timeworn character. Additional surface wear, small marks, and variations in the patina reflect its original utilitarian use. Both a collectible example of American folk craft and a visually compelling decorative object, this antique mortar and pestle would bring warmth and history to a kitchen, library, rustic interior, or curated collection of early American objects. Its compact scale also makes it particularly effective when displayed on a console, open shelf, kitchen counter, or among a grouping of antique treenware. A tactile and sculptural piece of late-19th-century American material culture, distinguished by its graceful turned form, richly aged surface, and honest signs of use. Antique American mortar and pestle, 19th-century wooden mortar, turned wood mortar, American treenware, primitive kitchen tool, early American folk art, rustic wooden vessel, apothecary mortar, farmhouse kitchen antique, hand-turned wood, spice grinder, antique culinary object, circa 1890.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 11.25 in (28.58 cm)Diameter: 4.5 in (11.43 cm)
  • Style:
    Folk Art (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Wood,Hand-Crafted,Turned
  • Place of Origin:
    United States
  • Period:
    Late 19th Century
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1890
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Beautiful warm patina. Age cracks running on the side which can be seen in the images.
  • Seller Location:
    Moreno Valley, CA
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: ALM5261stDibs: LU906849956742

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