19th-Century Austrian or German Brass Apothecary Mortar and Pestle

Details

Description

A handsome antique brass mortar and pestle with beautifully aged surfaces and the unmistakable character of a working object that … Read more A handsome antique brass mortar and pestle with beautifully aged surfaces and the unmistakable character of a working object that has seen considerable use.

The heavy cast mortar has a slightly waisted cylindrical body rising to a flared rim, with opposing squared open handles and finely incised horizontal bands. It is accompanied by a substantial double-ended brass pestle with flattened working ends.

The form is strongly suggestive of a Central European apothecary or household mortar, particularly examples made in the German-speaking regions of Austria or Germany during the 19th century. The flared rim, paired squared handles, ring decoration and heavy double-ended pestle are consistent with this tradition. However, without a maker’s mark, documented provenance or a securely comparable catalogued example, the origin should be presented as attributed to Austria or Germany, rather than stated as certain.

Particularly appealing is the untouched surface: warm, muted brass with dark oxidation, rubbing, scratches and tonal variation accumulated through age and use. It has not been polished.

Mortar measures approximately 4” tall, 5” wide including handles, 4.5” diameter.

In good antique condition with extensive patina, oxidation, surface wear, scratches and marks consistent with age and use. An old filled/repaired area is present on the body adjacent to one handle. The pestle displays corresponding wear from use. See less