Object ID Number:
PH306
Object Name:
Mortar & Pestle
Manufactured from:
1792
Manufactured to:
1850
Description / History:
Early 19th century mortar and pestle. The mortar is made of ceramic with the pestle made of porcelain and wood.
Dimensions:
H–5 Dia–8.25 inches
Additional Information:
Mortars and pestles were traditionally used in pharmacies to crush various ingredients prior to preparing an extemporaneous prescription. The mortar and pestle,with the Rod of Asclepius, the Orange Cross, and others, is one of the most pervasive symbols of pharmacology, along with the show globe.
For pharmaceutical use, the mortar and the head of the pestle are usually made of porcelain, while the handle of the pestle is made of wood. This is known as a Wedgwood mortar and pestle and originated in 1779. Later, marble and glass were also used. Today the act of mixing ingredients or reducing the particle size is known as trituration.
Mortars and pestles are also used as drug paraphernalia to grind up pills to speed up absorption when they are ingested, or in preparation for insufflation.
For pharmaceutical use, the mortar and the head of the pestle are usually made of porcelain, while the handle of the pestle is made of wood. This is known as a Wedgwood mortar and pestle and originated in 1779. Later, marble and glass were also used. Today the act of mixing ingredients or reducing the particle size is known as trituration.
Mortars and pestles are also used as drug paraphernalia to grind up pills to speed up absorption when they are ingested, or in preparation for insufflation.
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