Roman Terracotta Mortarium

Roman Empire, c. 50–200 AD

This magnificent and rare Ancient Roman mortarium is crafted from buff terracotta, expertly wheel-turned with a stepped foot and double holes on the rim for a suspension cord. The interior retains much of its original sanded surface, designed to aid in grinding and blending, while a simple channeled pouring spout allows for easy transfer of liquids.

Essential in Roman culinary practices, mortaria were used to grind spices, herbs, and grains, much like a modern mortar and pestle. These wide-mouthed bowls featured thick, gritty interiors, achieved by pressing sand or hard grit particles into the clay before firing. Typically made from reddish or buff-colored clay, they were a staple in both domestic kitchens and professional food preparation areas across the Roman Empire.

The production of mortaria was highly specialized, with workshops dedicated to their crafting. Some regions, such as Mancetter-Hartshill and Oxfordshire in Roman Britain, became renowned for their high-quality mortaria, which were distributed throughout the empire. Many of these vessels bore potters’ marks, providing insight into standardized production and trade networks. The elegant shapes and well-formed spouts of these utilitarian vessels reflect the Romans’ appreciation for both functionality and craftsmanship.

This exceptional mortarium is a testament to the ingenuity of Roman kitchenware design, offering a tangible link to the daily lives and culinary traditions of the ancient world.

Excellent condition. Surface wear and abrasions commensurate with age, nicks and chip, otherwise intact. Encrusted patina and rich earthen deposits throughout. Size approx. 23,3cm x 19,3cm x 4,8cm.

Provenance: British private collection

For a similar examples see: 

Mortarium, The British Museum, Accession Number:1921,1220.117

(https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/G_1921-1220-117)

Terracotta mortar, Lyons, France, 50-300 CE, Science Museum Group, Accession Number: A634941