Spice Merchant Grinding Cinnamon on Winter Boat

Mist hangs low over the dark water of Erdenet as the first light of winter morning bleeds through the fog. A merchant stands on a wooden boat, hands working a heavy stone mill to grind cinnamon bark. The rough texture of the bark contrasts with the smooth, wet surface of the grinding stone. Steam rises from the warm spices, blending with the humid air that follows the recent rain. Surrounding boats crowd the narrow channel, their hulls dark and slick. The merchant wears a thick wool coat, shoulders hunched against the cold. Colors are muted browns, grays, and the warm orange of the spice powder settling on the wood. one drop of water rolls down the edge of the mill stone.