Antique Hand-carved Primitive Scoop / Mortar with Handle wooden cat bookend reading Lucky Strikes on the

reading Lucky Strikes on the long side

firmly in place and opening and closing with ease--one must be just a very tiny bit bent

and great for serving or holding little things

5” wide x 5” tall

with additional colorful abstract forms

Antique Hand-carved Primitive Scoop / Mortar with Handle wooden cat bookend reading Lucky Strikes on theI've seen handled bowls of this form described as mortars, scoops, ladles and dippers; whatever one wants to call this one, it is truly a beautiful thing. I believe it is carved of burl wood and is a gorgeous warm honey color (possibly maple), with a great sheen and smoothness from use and age, I'd guess well over a hundred years. Because it feels so wonderful in the hand, I'd want to use it or at least keep it near at hand; or one could wrap that