c. 1100 AD. Seljuk. Heavy bronze mortar and pestle. The mortar comprises an out-turned rim, cylindrical body decorated with pyramidal bosses, and a stepped-out foot. A pestle features a domed handle, slightly tapering body and rounded base. This beautiful object may have been used in the kitchen for food preparation, or for the mixing of medicines by a medieval doctor. The Seljuks were a Turkic dynasty who swept out of Central Asia in the early 10th century and conquered an enormous expanse across Eurasia. After inflicting crushing military defeats on a host of rivals, the most famous of which was perhaps that against the Byzantines at the Battle of Manzikert in 1071, the Seljuk sultans became major patrons of art and architecture. Excellent condition; beautiful patina. Provenance: Property of a professional London art expert; obtained from an old British collection formed before 2000. Size: L:Set of 2: 125 - 235mm / W:40 - 160mm ; 5.7kg