Antique Hand-carved Primitive Scoop / Mortar with Handle wooden cat bookend some wear and discoloration to

some wear and discoloration to the bottom of the interior of the planter

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

reading Lucky Strikes on the long side

The vase is signed on the bottom but I am uncertain of the maker

Antique Hand-carved Primitive Scoop / Mortar with Handle wooden cat bookend some wear and discoloration toI'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