Early 1900s Moroccan Hand Crank Coffee Grinder Silver, Brass Coins Functional

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Early 1900s Moroccan Hand Crank Coffee Grinder Silver, Brass Coins Functional

About the Item

This antique hand-crank grinder is made of tamarisk wood, with hand-engraved silver melange adornment, hand carved camel bone embellishments, and numerous antique coins. Entirely handmade, this grinder was used by southern Morocco nomads while traveling and crossing the Sahara desert. We sourced the item from Zagora, Morocco, where the item has been handed down through generations. The front of the grinder has a removable drawer, with two coins directly above the drawer pull. The coins are pounded but are recognizable as Moroccan Rial dating to the early 1910s. The front has rudimentary engraved silver half-star designs, with additional silver rivet accents. Both sides of the grinder have decorative silver designs, one with a bead of red coral in the middle, the other with green malachite in the middle. On the back, a large camel is flanked by three antique coins, the aforementioned Moroccan rial. In the middle of the camel there is a large lapis lazuli gemstone. The top is a combination of metalwork techniques: extensive embossed brass, hand-hammered by a native; repoussé silver mélange; and hand-beaded brass. Four triangles of camel bone are on each corner, carved with the traditional Moroccan evil eye. One side of the lid opens, and the brass handle turns easily. Used for grinding coffee or spices, this objet d'art is still fully functional. This objet d'art is entirely handmade by native Moroccan Berber artisans. It is early 20th century, passed down through generations of families. Morocco Early 20th century approx. 1kg 50g.

Dimensions:
Height: 7.09 in (18 cm)Width: 3.94 in (10 cm)Depth: 4.34 in (11 cm)
Style:
Tribal (In the Style Of)
Materials and Techniques:
Brass,Cedar,Copper,Coral,Lapis Lazuli,Malachite,Silver,Beaded,Carved,Embossed,Hammered,Repoussé
Place of Origin:
Morocco
Period:
Early 20th Century
Date of Manufacture:
Early 1900s
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
Vineyard Haven, MA
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU4404216583321