Lot 327: An 18th Century Style French Carved Marble Mortar and Turned Hardwood Pestle 28x59cm

In the style of 18th century French examples, this substantial mortar is carved from a single block of light-coloured marble, possibly white or grey with natural veining. The vessel is of traditional form, featuring a thick circular rim with four integral, projecting lugs positioned at ninety-degree intervals. The exterior body tapers downwards to a thick, flat base, enclosing a deeply recessed interior bowl showing signs of historical use. The accompanying pestle is of a classic turned hardwood design, possibly lignum vitae, featuring a rounded pommel handle with a deep, dark patina. The striking head of the pestle is lighter in colour and exhibits wear and flattening consistent with age and use. Similar four-lugged mortars were standard equipment in both apothecary and culinary environments throughout the 18th and 19th centuries across Europe.