This granite rose mortar was hand-carved in Northern Brittany, France during the 1600’s. Granite is formed when magma is cooled underground, which causes various minerals to become embedded in the stone. Our gray granite has black and gray inclusions dotted amongst many pink deposits. The goblet-shaped mortar has two large protuberances extending from the sides; these would have been used as handles for lifting the mortar.

Often made of durable materials, such as stone or marble, mortars were designed to withstand a pestle’s grinding. In France, they were used in the kitchens of grand chateaux. They were also used in apothecaries by pharmacists to crush the herbs into powder for medicinal purposes. It is quite unusual to see a mortar made from this Brittany granite.  They are mostly found in various types of marble. Our 17th century granite rose mortar can be used as a decorative bowl or accessory anywhere in the home.

CONDITION: Good antique condition with minor nicks and losses. Wear commensurate to age and use with light buildup to interior and traces of moss and lichen. The mortar does not include a pestle.