Bronze mortars, like the one pictured here, were essential pharmaceutical tools for apothecaries dating from the 12^th century and onward. Mortars from the 17^th century ranged in materials from bronze, marble, wood, brass, glass and stoneware.  Ornate in design, these items were adorned with elaborate floral and geometric designs, as well as, animals and insects. The bull, depicted on this item, was symbolic of fertility and strength.   Mortars could also be decorated with motifs that were representative of their contents.

This mortar measures 5” round and 3 ¼” in height.  Smaller mortars, like this, were used for grinding powders.  It is bronze with a wide raised flared mouth and the waist is decorated with raised bull motifs.  The bottom is not smooth, but has a raised protrusion in the center ideal for mixing.  The bowl can be easily spun around as a mixture is being compounded.  There is some verdigris on the bottom interior.

Excellent condition mortar for those interested in medicinal practices or items from the 17^th century.  [mk] [ph:L]

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