"Brass Apothecary Mortar Hercule Biche Caryatids Puy-en-velay XVIIth"
Brass* apothecary mortar, flared body with buttresses in the shape of terms or caryatids, body decorated with screaming grotesque heads in profile as well as medallions representing Hercules and the deer of Cerynia as well as a woman (most certainly Saint Cecilia with his instrument), edge chiseled with fleur-de-lys, work from Puy-en-Velay, from the 17th century. This mortar is in good general condition, high quality carving. A note: some shocks, dirt and wear of time, see photos. *Brass (from the Latin aes) Term synonymous with bronze (an alloy of copper and tin) used in certain contexts. Dimensions Base diameter 8.4 cm / neck 14 cm Height 9 cm Reference: F30 1068 All photos are on: www.antiques-delaval.com 
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