Northeast America, ca. late 18th century. Carved from highly figured ash burl in richly colored unvarnished surface. The handle terminates in a scroll that stands proud in the form of a ram's horns, a shape seen in the period fireplace equipment like peels. Note how the outer edge of the termination is in-carved into a "channel". A strong example of a utilitarian object made to be beautiful. Length about 8 1/2 inches, the bowl about 5 wide. Provenance: Private collection for 25 years.