Object Record
Images
Metadata
Catalog Number |
2016.009.009 |
Object Name |
Mortar, Grain |
Description |
This is a grain mortar, used as a vessel for making corn meal. There is a burned-in design of dots and lines across the middle of the mortar and a large black stripe below these patterns. The mortar stands on a small base. Mortars have been prevalent in African homes for thousands of years for grinding grain, herbs, medicines, and more. This mortar was carved from a single piece of wood. It has burned designs in it to decorate it which is common for many utilitarian household pieces. This piece was originally donated to the Mars Hill University Archives before it was transferred to the ETSU Reece Museum c. 2016. It was acquired in the mid-20th century by Baptist Missionaries in East Africa. Special thanks to Dr. Althia Ali for researching this artifact alongside Reece Museum staff. This research was made possible by the Luce Foundation. |
Date |
c. mid-20th century |
Dimensions |
H-22.8 D-14.3 Dia-16.2 Cir-50.89 cm |
Place of Origin |
Africa |
Material |
wood |
Subjects |
tools and technology |
Search Terms |
African Art Africa Missionary Handmade |