"16th Cty Spherical Hispano-moresque Mortar With Bronze Fins, Southern Spain"
HAUTE EPOQUESuperb bronze mortar with fins (14 in ornament, triangular in shape), of "Hispano-Moorish" type, with rounded belly and bottom.
16th century (late Gothic), probably southern Spain
Very nice patina of prolonged and daily use over centuries, brown with darker parts and shiny.
Perfect condition (the 2 slight surface cracks visible on the bottom of the mortar are not at all through).
"Essential work tool for an apothecary, mortars were used to make medicines, powders and all kinds of medicinal preparations. Mortars were also used in the kitchen: the rare and precious spices were meticulously ground and then used in dishes. Mortars could therefore be a useful and symbolic gift, to be offered at weddings.
The traces of impact and wear , due to heavy use, add to the patina of the bronze to give this mortar a very authentic appearance.."
Dimensions:
13cm diameter and 9,7cm height
Le Magazine de PROANTIC
TRÉSORS Magazine
Rivista Artiquariato