An antique mortar and pestle made of bronze. The item is characterized by embossed decorations, such as figures, faces, or plant motifs. Similar items often date to the 17th or 18th century and originate in Europe, such as France or Spain. The history of decorated bronze mortars of this type is closely linked to medicine, pharmacy, and home cooking in Europe from the late Middle Ages to the 18th century. Bell foundries: Many bronze mortars were actually made by bell foundries in churches and monasteries throughout Europe (especially in France, the Netherlands, and Italy), due to the use of a similar alloy sometimes called "bell metal