H4518.5

Mortar and pestle, for herb gathering, etc., iron From the History Information Station: Object: Chinese steel mortar and iron pestle with wooden handle. The leather collar kept the contents of the mortar from flying out as they were ground. History: This mortar and pestle was used in San Francisco to grind herbs for food and medicine. Until the invention of electrical devices for chopping and grindng, the mortar and pestle had an important place in every California kitchen and pharmacy.

Used: herb grinding | Chinese | Chinese American | California