Medieval Middle East / Central Asia, Persia (Iran and Turkey), Seljuk (Seljuq) Empire, ca. 12th to 13th century CE. A fine leaded-bronze mortar and brass pestle of hefty forms cast via the lost wax technique. The stocky, round-bottomed mortar has tall walls and a gently corseted shoulder that flares upward around the deep basin. The exterior is decorated with 4 registers of Kufic script, knotwork rondels, interlacing linear patterns, and seated anthropomorphic figures upon thrones; all detailing on the mortar is inlaid with 25% silver. The pestle has a tapered, conical, flared pounding face and a ball-shaped finial handle. The workmanship is exquisite for this utilitarian and artistic piece. Both components exhibit thick, green patina atop areas of the smooth, dark brown patina. Mortars and pestles were important tools for grinding ingredients and medicine. Inlaying bronze and brass objects with precious metals such as gold and silver was a popular practice that many bronze workshops specialized in during this era. Size of mortar: 6" Diameter x 5.5" H (15.2 cm x 14 cm); pestle: 8.25" L x 1.5" W (21 cm x 3.8 cm)

Provenance: private California, USA collection, purchased in Iran in 1973

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#164635

Surface pitting, nicks, and abrasions to pestle head as expected with use. Chip and nick to base of mortar. Surface pitting and abrasions especially on the interior of mortar as expected with use and age. Heavy green patina and mineral deposits on both. Nice details on mortar!