What is this?

[Rich2008]

My sister paints in the Norwegian Rosemaling style. She bought this wooden item on EBay, with the intention of painting it in the Rosemaling (decorative style), but we can not figure out exactly what this wooden item is. It looks as if it has been carved. From what part of the world it originates from is a mystery. And what was it used for? Can anyone identify it?

Thanks for looking.
Rich

[hwallen48]

Looks like a bowl to me???

[Donsexton]

It has that East Asia look to it to me I cant tell what type of wood that is but it could be mango wood just can't be sure unless I had my hands on it. Cool looking thing just the same thanks for posting.

[SeaLeveler]

Bowl,boat,knee guard,??????????Tony

[RUssL.]

It's a Norwegian drinking bowl/vessel.
These vessels come from the same tradition as rosemaling so I am surprised that your sister did not recognize it as such.

[RUssL.]

Here are a whole bunch of one particular basic design:
Norsk Wood Works -- Norsk Ale Bowl

[Rich2008]

Thanks for posting the info. Well appreciated.
Rich

[Gulf Coast Handyman]

Looks like a scoop ??

Dave

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

looks like a Jai Lai scoop lol

[Canopener]

I am 99.9 % sure that is an Ale Hen. Ale hens were for community drinking of homeade ale served in bucket or tub. You would float the hen or other vessel like a boat and when you wanted a drink you just helped yourself. As you may know ale is much quicker and easier to brew than beer and does not require the ageing, so a farmer or other country type could whip up a batch for a special occasion and; well, you can figure the rest.
I am getting this info from Harley Refsals books if you care to follow up.
Cheers!
Jim