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Museum object · Slavery and Freedom Objects

Mortar and pestle for pounding grain

1840-1940

Smithsonian NMAAHC collection

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Source catalog description

This description refers to material held by Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Visual details below describe the original material.

A handcarved mortar (.1) and pestle (.2) used to pound grain, possibly rice. Mortar is made of a single piece of wood, possibly cypress. Mortar is tall and round with a carved out bowl at top. Pestle is also made of a single piece of wood. Pestle has handle at center with rounded heads at either side of handle.

Sources & collection details

Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture — original record ↗

Source collection ↗

Catalog metadata · CC0 · Source checked 2026-10-13

Catalog reference: 2014.312.19.1-.2

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