Set of three mortars and a pestle; 18th–19th centuries.

Set of three mortars and a pestle; 18th–19th centuries.
Marble, stone, and alabaster. Wooden mallet.
Measurements: 12 x 15 x 16 cm.
Lot consisting of three mortars, carved from solid blocks, all with four ridges for a secure grip.The antiquity of mortars is very well documented in some works of ancient literature, such as the Egyptian Ebers Papyrus, which dates to 1550 B.C. and is considered one of the oldest medical texts from Ancient Egypt. It is also mentioned in the Old Testament, and the Roman poet Juvenal refers to it in writings about the preparation of medicines.