Ca. 1100-1200 AD. A beautiful bronze mortar and pestle set. The mortar is a hollow-cast bronze with flange rims on top and bottom, which would have allowed it to sit securely on a flat surface. The outer surface, as well as the rim, are decorated with three horizontally oriented registers containing silver inlaid Arabic script. The pestle, used to grind and crush materials inside the mortar is of slender form, and it features a flat base and a decorative knobbed handle, which would have provided a comfortable grip for the user. The use of mortars and pestles in the Seljuk world was essential for the preparation of a variety of substances, including spices, herbs, and medicinal powders. They were commonly used in kitchens, apothecaries, and medical facilities. PossSize: L:120-210mm / W:50-170mm ; 910-3340gProvenance: Private London family collection.