1250 - Millstone, West Africa (probably Ghana), 20th century

Millstone, West Africa (probably Ghana), 20th century Stone. Dimensions: approx. 66 × 66 × 8.5 cm. Millstone used for grinding wheat and other grains. Originally, grain was ground by hand using a stone rubbed against a flat surface; later, this method evolved into the use of mills consisting of two stones placed one on top of the other, operated by hand, which allowed the grain to be ground into flour. The mill operates in pairs, with a lower stone (bedstone) and a rotating upper stone (runner stone), both featuring a characteristic grooved pattern that facilitates the movement of the grain through the intersecting channels. As they rotate, the grooves on both stones act like scissors, causing the grain to be crushed and broken down until it is completely ground. A representative object of the material culture and traditional subsistence techniques of rural Africa, of notable ethnographic and decorative interest. Lot stored in an international warehouse (within the EU). Intra-EU shipping: no import duties apply within the EU. An export permit from the country of origin may be required. Due to its age and history of use, this lot may show signs of wear and previous interventions. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, no specialized technical testing has been performed. The absence of any mention of restorations does not guarantee that none exist. You may request additional information before placing a bid. This does not affect the buyer’s statutory rights.