Lot 548 D α

An Islamic mortar with a rare niche pattern

Golden yellow cast broze with mottled dark brown patina. Of octagonal section with protruding base and rim. Seven of the eight faces decorated with lotus bud reliefs, the eighth with a ring shaped handle, each with an engraved prayer niche motif to the centre. The borders decorated with braided motifs and tendrils in reserves. With a minor vertical crack and dents to the basal ring. H 13.2, D 18.7 cm, includes pestle, weight with pestle c. 9.5 kg.
Attributed to Iran, 12th - 13th C.