Lost wax cast bronze mortar with a body defined by parallel and successive frames delimiting its circumference.
On both faces, centrally positioned, a garland of flowers and fruit is surmounted by a classic 16th-century angel with outstretched wings.
Two anthropomorphic handles facilitate grip and handling.
Veneto, 16th century.
Dimensions:
Height 28 cm x bottom diameter 19 cm x top diameter 30 cm
This particular type of bronze mortar, made using the lost wax casting technique, was often intended for pharmaceutical use. Indeed, inside them, various raw materials were crushed and ground with the help of bronze pestles until reduced to powder, allowing them to be used, alone or mixed with others, for pharmacological purposes.
In this specific case, the artifact was crafted using complex techniques and was meticulously shaped and ornamented, resulting in works of art that were both highly functional and aesthetically refined and captivating.
Reference bibliography:
Giorgio Lise, "Antichi Mortai di farmacia" (Ancient Pharmacy Mortars), 1975, Silvana editoriale d'arte, Milan
Ulrich Middeldorf, "Fifty Mortars 15th -18th Century", 1981, Florence
If the artwork is purchased by non-Italian clients, it will require a certificate of free circulation. This can be obtained within 10/20 working days. The gallery will handle all bureaucratic and economic aspects of this process. All costs associated with this procedure are therefore included in the price.
The artwork, like all our other items, will be sold with certificates of authenticity and lawful provenance.
We personally manage and organize the packaging and worldwide shipping of artworks, including insurance.
