A rare antique Spanish Renaissance to early Baroque cast bronze apothecary mortar, manufactured in Spain, circa 1650–1720. The heavy bell-shaped body is sand-cast and reinforced with four vertical buttress ribs dividing the exterior into four panels. Each panel is cast in relief with the crowned arms of the House of Enríquez, displaying two castles above a lion in the characteristic mantled arrangement. The House of Enríquez was one of the principal noble houses of medieval and early modern Castile.

The mortar has exceptionally thick walls and a deep hemispherical interior showing extensive historic use, including numerous pestle marks, old mineral deposits and a dark grey-green patina. Such wear is entirely consistent with prolonged use in an apothecary setting.

The exterior retains its original historic patina with areas of stable green malachite oxidation. The underside displays long-term wear together with characteristic sand-casting features consistent with seventeenth-century Spanish bronze founding techniques.

Comparable mortars bearing the arms of the House of Enríquez are preserved in the collections of the Smithsonian Institution, while closely related examples have appeared at public auction and on the Spanish antiques market, supporting the attribution of this form to seventeenth-century Spanish bronze founding traditions.

Dimensions:

• Weight 1071 g

• Height 7.2 cm

• Diameter 10.8 cm

Condition:

Excellent antique condition with an untouched historic surface. No cracks or structural damage.

Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. It is important to note that shipping costs include labour, packaging and postage