What could this have been used for?

[agatequeen]

First I would like to say, I LOVE THIS SITE! I am a new member, and I have been glued to the site for hours.

Does anyone know what this little pot could have been used for? The size of the pot is around 3 1/2 by 3 1/2 depth of hole is around 1 1/2

 

[Geradot]

mortar

 

[quito]

It looks like a small mortar to me.

 

[agatequeen]

I was told it was a mortar but because it is small, I didn't know if anyone had an opinion of what it might be used for. I am taking it to a class of 4th graders and I know that question will come up. Just thought you experts might have some ideas.

 

[Molewacker]

My guess would be for grinding pigments for paint or small seeds for seasoning -

Small motar - 1/2 way down page -

Ancient Native American Indian Artifacts, Relics and Arrowheads - Axes & Stone Tools Page 1

Good find!

 

[agatequeen]

Thank you I do appreciate the info.

 

[quito]

There are small mortars as well as big ones.

 

[agatequeen]

Yep there are. I just didn't know what this mainly would be used for. I had some ideas but wanted more input from experienced people like you.

 

[The Grim Reaper]

That material looks like Pumice. Is it really light for it's size? Pumice was used to grind and polish.

 

[agatequeen]

It's more like volcanic and it's very dense. It has a good weight to it.