18th Century Heavy Cast Brass Lathe-Turned Mortar and Pestle

Details

Description

This heavy 18th-century cast brass mortar and pestle showcases classic lathe-turned concentric incised ring detailing across its flared goblet-form body … Read more This heavy 18th-century cast brass mortar and pestle showcases classic lathe-turned concentric incised ring detailing across its flared goblet-form body and pedestal foot. Originating from traditional European apothecary and Jewish kitchen environments—and sourced through J. Greenstein Auction house—this set highlights early metallurgical craft through its dense bell-metal mass, warm aged patina, and balances functional utility with architectural elegance. The accompanying double-ended pestle features a urn-shaped finial and turned collar accents.

Curator's Note:
Cast in dense bell-metal brass weighing over 7 pounds, this magnificent 18th-century mortar and pestle boasts an elegant flared goblet silhouette detailed with crisp lathe-turned incised banding. Originating from a distinguished Judaica auction provenance (J. Greenstein & Co.), its rich untouched patina, substantial architectural presence, and centuries of authentic wear make it a standout sculptural accent for modern kitchens, curated library shelves, or rustic antique brass groupings.

Technical Construction & Physical Specifications
Construction Method: Heavy sand-cast solid brass/bell metal with hand-turned lathe finishing and incised linear banding.

Mortar Form: Flared goblet body with turned rim, multi-ringed waist, and an stepped pedestal foot with a recessed lathe-marked underside.

Pestle Form: Heavy double-ended pestle featuring an urn/baluster finial handle, central retaining collar, tapered shaft, and flared pounding head.

Base Details: Concave turned base with central lathe center-point indentation and faint historic ink/scratch inventory mark ("A7.").

Dimensions:
Mortar: 5.5 inches Height × 5.0 inches Top Diameter (3.75 inches Base Diameter).

Pestle: 7.875 inches (7-7/8") Length × 1.75 inches Pounding Head Diameter.

Weight: Combined total of 7 lbs 4.8 oz (116.8 oz / 3.31 kg). Mortar: approx. 4 lbs 12 oz; Pestle: approx. 2 lbs 8.8 oz.

Surface Finish: Original unpolished warm brass patina with oxidation, verdigris highlights in recessed grooves, and authentic age-related surface wear. See less