Lot 1110 Dα

A large and opulent dated Italian mortar

Golden brown cast bronze with dark brown patina. Thick-walled bell shaped form with protruding moulded base and moulded rim. The bulbous lower section cast with an acanthus frieze, the upper section with a flower garland held by six putti in flight. Below this two lions rampant and two falling stars. The broad rim and the base inscribed "MARIANVS BONANI FVNDENVM CVRAVIT A. D. MDC" and "OPVS ANGELI CASINI ROM FVND SAC PAL APOS". H 40, D 47.8 cm. Weight 82,0 kg. Including a corresponding iron pestle.
Rome, possibly made for the kitchens of the Vatican, 1600.