Indian Brass Mortar

A deep chestnut-dark pot with a smooth belly and a rolled collar.

This brass mortar is from India, and dates to the mid 19th or early 20th century. Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, and its density makes a mortar heavy enough to stay steady while the ingredients are pounded. A bulbous body with a thick, rounded rim and a short pedestal foot. The upper shoulder has a subtle ridge and the rest is plain. The surface is dark reddish-brown with a lustrous, handled sheen and small scuffs. It is 2.6 inches high and 2.75 in diameter.

Plump, polished and untroubled by decoration.