Lot 373: An antique cast bronze or brass mortar and pestle with twin rectangular handles

A heavy cast metal mortar and pestle set, likely constructed from bronze or a heavy brass alloy. The mortar is of a traditional flared form with a reinforced rim and a stepped, spreading base, flanked by two solid, rectangular-section handles. The matching pestle features a central knop and rounded bulbous ends. The surfaces exhibit a dark brown patinated finish which shows significant historic wear, revealing a lighter golden-toned metal beneath. Notable remnants of gold-coloured pigment or gilding are visible as vertical streaks and within the recessed moulded bands. The set is unmarked and shows no identifying characters or symbols.