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Lot 192:
Description
An Italian Baroque style bronze mortar and matching pestle featuring elaborate relief-moulded decoration. The heavy mortar is of flared form with a wide, out-turned rim above a waisted body, supported by a stepped, circular foot. The central decorative motif depicts a grotesque satyr-like mascaron with horns and a beard, flanked by floral and fruit swags extending towards the handles. The two side handles are cast in the form of small, rounded human heads, and the lower body is finished with a band of gadrooned decoration. The mortar is cast with the Roman numeral inscription M.D.C.XXXV positioned below the central face. The accompanying heavy bronze pestle is of characteristic knopped form. The set displays a dark, varied patina with areas of oxidation and verdigris within the recessed details.
Height: 23 cm
Diameter: 25.5 cm
Pestle Length: 33 cm.
Condition report:
The mortar and pestle show general surface wear, minor scratches, and small nicks consistent with functional use. A small chip is visible on the outer edge of the upper rim, positioned above the main mascaron (photo 4). The surface displays visible casting flaws and pitting throughout the exterior and handles (photo 1 and 2). The interior shows significant darkening, wear, and surface abrasion from use (photo 3). Both pieces exhibit a dark, varied patina with areas of oxidation and verdigris in the recessed areas.
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