Lot 511 Dα

An important Islamic mortar

Chased cast bronze with copper damascening and gilding. Octagonal section with broad, flaring upper and lower rims. The centre with two applied bands of moulding, the upper and lower rims decorated with eight raised elongated teardrop motifs. Richly decorated throughout with foliate tendrils, disc motifs and calligraphic inscriptions. Some excavation damage, sintering and greenish corrosion. H 14.5, D 23 cm. Weight c. 5.8 kg. Including a pestle with an engraved baluster finial and central rib.
Attributed to Khorasan/Iran, 12th century.