This bronze mortar and pestle are from 18th century France.  The mortar has very little ornamentation, with the exception of minute step molding.  The pestle is also minimally adorned, having a few raised discs.

The original use of a mortar and pestle was to aid pharmacists in crushing herbs into powder for medicinal purposes. In France, they were also used in the kitchens of grand chateaux. The material used to construct a mortar and pestle is almost always a hard substance, such as marble or stone, which could stand up to the rigors of use. Today, they are quite collectible, and although they can still be used in the kitchen for grinding spices, they are mostly used as decorative bowls or accessories. This mortar has a nice patina which shows its age well, but is still in very good condition.

CONDITION:  Good antique condition.  Minor losses and fleabites mainly to the pestle.