A very lovely English early 19th century apothecary or snuff lignum vitae pestle and mortar of outstanding colour and patina. 

The contrasting heart and sapwood on each is stunning and of the highest quality. Lignum Vitae really is the pinnacle of visually stunning woods.

It was used to grind either chemists powder or snuff from the tobacco leaves. This example has ring turned decoration on the base of the mortar. 

Both pestle and mortar are in excellent condition. 

Dimensions: Overall height when pestle is placed in the mortar is 13.5 cms. The mortar 11 cms high and the pestle 11 cms long.