Old slab of molave wood (yellow rosewood) once used as part of a sugar cane mill. The two circular openings originally held geared mortars that crushed cane for pressing. Sugar was the Philippines’ primary export for nearly four centuries, until production shifted to other island nations. By the late 19th century, mills became mechanized, and older wooden structures were discarded or burned. This slab shows signs of modification and reuse before being abandoned and left to weather. Today, molave is commercially extinct, and such pieces are salvaged and re-milled for preservation. Mounted on a steel base.

c. 18^th–19^th century, Philippines

86" height x 24" width x 36" diameter