Painted Rice Measure

This rustic container was made over a hundred years ago to measure and hold a dou of rice, an ancient Chinese measurement. The wooden vessel has a squared form, hand-crafted with tapered sides and an arched top strengthened with iron trim. The flat sides are etched and painted with large Chinese characters and reinforced with additional iron fittings at the corners. A split to the wood on one side has been addressed with an antique iron staple repair, adding to the measure's storied charm.

From the collection of Frances and Gary Comer.