Ca. 700 BC
An elegant Egyptian marble mortar and pestle. The mortar has a beautifully hewn, boat-shaped body with a flat base, and the accompanying pestle tapers to a bulbous end, facilitating efficient grinding. These tools served as essential implements for grinding, pulverizing, and blending a wide range of materials for pharmaceutical preparations, food processing, and the production of pigments and cosmetics. Marble, known for its resistance to wear and chemical reactions, provided a robust and reliable surface for grinding and pounding. Moreover, the elegant appearance of the material added a touch of sophistication to these utilitarian objects.
 
Provenance: Property of a London Ancient Art gallery, formerly ex David Hendin collection.