Well, it's pretty definitely a mortar. Looks pestly; they came together? Vs a wooden pestle it was likely expensive material wise (would be cheaper now, probably though), and more work to make, but consider the durablity and increased bite of the harder surface, and also the assistance the weight would give to the work. Certainly seems too heavy for a weapon. What's with the little hole? What's with the depressed band? I don't know. Did a fulcrum/axel/turning handle insert through the wedge-shaped hole? Did something grab the depressed spot? Does it seem original with hammer marks (I see none in the depression) or worn in with rotary wear from use? Interesting too.
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