19th Century Spanish Bronze Apothecary Mortar and Pestle With Dog Head Handles

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This unique bronze mortar and pestle would have been used in a Spanish apothecary during the 1800s. A pair of … Read more This unique bronze mortar and pestle would have been used in a Spanish apothecary during the 1800s. A pair of downward facing dogs serve as handles that extend well beyond the main body. Beneath the two canine heads are a pair of lion mascarons that slightly project from the main body. Additional undulating protrusions can be seen outside the lions, flanking a coat of arms display. A thinly rolled rim to the opening supports the bulbous pestle, which has commensurate wear from decades of grinding pharmaceutical ingredients. Mortars and pestles have been used for centuries to crush herbs into powder for medicinal purposes. Today, they are typically sought after as decorative accessories or bowls, although you can use one in the kitchen for grinding spices. See less