A rare Iranian mortar and pestle with Kufic c ...

A rare Iranian mortar and pestle with Kufic calligraphy

Cast bronze with golden brown patina, inlaid with silver and copper, traces of green corrosion. Cylindrical form with narrow base and corresponding rim. The outer surface divided by a prominent moulding. Decorated with three large silver inlaid medallions with figural depictions alternating with calligraphic cartouches. Three "elbow" handles, each with a bronze ring, alternating with large Kufic letters. The upper rim decorated with a calligraphic inscription. H 13.7, D 15.5 cm. weight 4.3 kg. With a corresponding pestle, presumably the original.

12th - 14th C.