Bronze Mortar - France - Circa 1500

Bronze mortar in excellent condition with two monograms in gothic letters "FL" and "BA" on the front of the belly; and between the two initials a cross.
Essential work tool for an apothecary, mortars were used to make medicines, powders and all kinds of medicinal preparations. Mortars were also used in the kitchen: the rare and precious spices were meticulously ground and then used in dishes. Mortars could therefore be a useful and symbolic gift, to be offered at weddings. The presence of the monograms and the cross suggests that our mortar was given as a wedding gift.
The traces of wear at the bottom of the vessel, due to heavy use, add to the patina of the bronze to give this mortar a very authentic appearance.