This old Gurage grain mortar originates from the Gurage region of Ethiopia and was traditionally used for grinding grains essential to daily life.
Unlike sculpted decorative pieces, this object is defined by its pure, vertical form — a tall, hollowed wooden vessel carved entirely for function.
Hand-carved from a single block of hardwood, the mortar bears the traces of repetitive use: a deep interior cavity, softened edges and a rich, natural patina developed over generations. Its strength lies in its simplicity — honest, utilitarian and grounded.
Today, this tall mortar reads as a powerful sculptural object through form alone. Placed on the floor, beside a console or on a low plinth, it adds height, rhythm and raw authenticity to a space. Perfect for wabi-sabi, brutalist, minimalist or ethnically layered interiors.
Each piece is one of a kind, carrying the weight of its history.
In Gurage households, grain mortars were essential tools used daily to process grains for cooking. Their tall form allowed for efficient grinding and durability. These objects were valued for endurance and practicality rather than ornamentation.
