An Islamic mortar Engraved cast bronze with... Lot 531

An Islamic mortar Engraved cast bronze with copper damascene, the natural golden yellow patina showing through in areas, partially concealed by red pigment and mottled dark brown and green sinter. Of octagonal section with protruding upper and lower rims. The facets decorated with bird motifs in round medallions, the base with a calligraphic inscription, the upper rim with tendrils and lotus bud reliefs. One face with a rhomboid relief with a casting flaw. The rims slightly dented. H 14.2, D 18.7 cm, weight c. 5.3 kg. Khorasan, 12th - 14th C. Provenance Archaeological find, Afghanistan.