Set of Three Antique Hard Stone French Mortars

This set of three antique mortars, crafted from durable hard stone (pierre froid), features four distinct flat lobes around the rim. Traditionally used in Provençal kitchens, these mortars have a rustic charm with their weathered patina, a result of time spent outdoors. Their substantial weight and stone construction make them ideal for both decorative and practical use in the garden or home.

In Provence, mortars like these were essential tools in everyday cooking, particularly for making pistou—a traditional sauce made from basil, garlic, and olive oil, similar to pesto. These sturdy mortars would also have been used to grind herbs, garlic, or nuts for a variety of local dishes, from aioli to tapenade. Whether used as planters or as decorative garden elements, these mortars evoke a sense of history and bring a timeless Provençal tradition into your space.