17th century bronze pestle & mortar
17th century bronze pestle & mortar
7634
A 17th century bronze pestle & mortar circa 1650.
The pestle and mortar is one of humanity's oldest tools, used for thousands of years to crush, grind and mix ingredients. Archaeological discoveries show examples carved from stone dating back to prehistoric times, while ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans relied on them for preparing medicines, spices and cosmetics.
During the Middle Ages, apothecaries made the pestle and mortar an essential symbol of their trade, using increasingly durable materials such as brass, bronze and iron.
By the seventeenth century, finely cast bronze mortars were especially prized for their strength, longevity and resonant quality, making them indispensable in both pharmacies and kitchens.
RELATED ITEMS
