Lot 1003 Dα

An early Afghan mortar with animal motifs

Bronze with high copper content and heavily worn gilding, slightly raw surface, copper inlays, traces of green corrosion. Octagonal vessel on slanted base, corresponding rim with calligraphic decor. Each face with a cartouche depicting a hoofed animal. A patinated breakage to the base, the rim worn from usage, one copper inlay warped. H 12.3, D 15.3 cm. Weight 3.6 kg.
Archaeological find from Badakhshan, presumably 13th C.