Carved Teak Opium Grinder -19thC

This beautifully carved and patinated teak Kharal was made for grinding opium. This piece dates from the 19thC and would have been passed down through the family from one generation to another. Probably made by a family member it is carved from a single piece of timber with the shape of a lions head at one end and a snake "Nag" head at the sprout end. The tradition of growing and taking opium in Rajasthan has exsisted for centuries and to some extent it is still taken during rituals and festivals.

Useful in the kitchen or it would make either a very unique decorative ornament or a practical desk tidy for keys and change etc.
From India

42 x 18 x 9 (wxdxh cms)

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