Monday 3rd August - Antiques, Jewellery, Militaria, Coins, Vinyl, Toys, Ceramics, Collectables
Monday 3rd August - Antiques, Jewellery, Militaria, Coins, Vinyl, Toys, Ceramics, Collectables
In the style of 18th century French examples, this substantial mortar is carved from a single block of light-coloured marble, possibly white or grey with natural veining. The vessel is of traditional form, featuring a thick circular rim with four integral, projecting lugs positioned at ninety-degree intervals. The exterior body tapers downwards to a thick, flat base, enclosing a deeply recessed interior bowl showing signs of historical use. The accompanying pestle is of a classic turned hardwood design, possibly lignum vitae, featuring a rounded pommel handle with a deep, dark patina. The striking head of the pestle is lighter in colour and exhibits wear and flattening consistent with age and use. Similar four-lugged mortars were standard equipment in both apothecary and culinary environments throughout the 18th and 19th centuries across Europe.
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