Antique Hand-carved Primitive Scoop / Mortar with Handle wooden cat bookend The plate has one small

The plate has one small crack near the center

but I certainly believe in infusing small joys into daily life wherever possible

with copper shield and woolen tunic

numbers perhaps

Antique Hand-carved Primitive Scoop / Mortar with Handle wooden cat bookend The plate has one smallI'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