This exceptional Bell-pestle represents more than just rudimentary
food-preaparation--the piece is well-made, displaying even lines and
uniform overall shape. Great care was taken to make this specimen. While
not common in any location, Bell-pestles are known to be found across the
country, and were used to pulverize acorns, grains, dried meat and berries.
Mixtures of these food-staples, in various combinations, and/or with animal
fat as a substitue for the berries, produced new tastes, and elevated the
nutritional value of foods consumed by the Indians. |
