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This information was automatically generated from data provided by MOA: University of British Columbia. It has been standardized to aid in finding and grouping information within the RRN. Accuracy and meaning should be verified from the Data Source tab.

Description

Tall, thin wood piece carved into a conical hollow shape with a flared foot.

History Of Use

Mortar used to crush spices that go into sauces. It is also used to make fufu, a famous West African dish made from pounding yam, cassava, or plantain. Mortars have both utilitarian and symbolic roles. For utilitarian purposes, the thumping sound of the pestle meeting the mortar announces the beginning of cooking. The pounding usually follows a rhythmic sound and usually accompanies a song. Depending on the occassion (funeral, weddings, birth or, just a lullaby) the song can vary. Symbolically mortars are used during traditional ceremonies for the initiation of young Kabiyè boys, when it is cut from a specific wood. Mortars are used by both men and women.

Item History

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