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A very rare example of a carved woodenmortar utilized by traditional doctors (diviners) as containers for preparing ritual medicines used to cure illnesses, protect the village, or ensure successful hunts. Ingredients were often hemp, tobacco or medicinal herbs.
The mortar features a classic mask face, and a very well weathered surface and handle, tribal repairs suggesting generations of ritual use.
The vessel measures 13.75 x 11.5 inches.
Provenance: A private Washington DC collection, reportedly for at least 25 years.
