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Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

What is the purpose of a pestle and mortar?

1 Answer
What is the purpose of a pestle and mortar?
The purpose of a mortar and pestle is to grind and mash items. In kitchens, people use them to prepare fresh herbs. Pharmacists and scientists may utilize them to break crystals and other substances into powders. On 1stDibs, shop a range of antique and vintage mortar and pestle sets.
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Shop for Large Mortar And Pestle on 1stDibs
African Pestle & Mortar
Located in London, Charterhouse Square
Large mortar and pestle from late 19th to early 20th century, carved from single piece of wood
Category

Early 20th Century Mounted Objects

Materials

Wood

European Antique Pestle and Mortar in Brass
Located in London, GB
rounded ends. Large mortar and pestle sets such as this were used for food and apothecary purposes. The
Category

Early 20th Century European Vases

Materials

Brass

Antique Large Wood American Mortar and Pestle.
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Large wood antique American mortar and pestle. Early rare turned wood footed mortar and pestle
Category

Antique Late 19th Century North American Country Decorative Bowls

Materials

Wood

Large Antique Wooden American Mortar and Pestle
By Berber Tribes of Morocco
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Large wood antique American mortar and pestle. Early 19th c. Americana turned wood footed mortar
Category

Early 20th Century Moroccan Folk Art Tribal Art

Materials

Wood

Large English 17th-18th Century Lignum Vitae Mortar and Pestle, England
Located in Haddonfield, NJ
A Large 17th-18th Century Lignum Vitae English Mortar and Pestle. Lignum Vitae is one of the worlds
Category

Antique Mid-17th Century British Folk Art Sculptures and Carvings

Materials

Wood

Large Antique Mortar & Pestle, English, Ceramic, Beech, Apothecary, Edwardian
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is a large antique mortar & pestle. An English, apothecary or country kitchen grinding set in
Category

Early 20th Century British Edwardian Ceramics

Materials

Ceramic, Beech

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