A Louis XVI style gilt-bronze mounted porphyry vase with cover, 18th century, the mounts late 19th century

The present vase, most probably carved out of porphyry originated from Ancient Roman ruins, was originally a mortar now mounted with Louis XVI style gilt-bronze mounts in order to appeal to a European 19th century clientele and collectors fascinated with luxuriously mounted precious stones. In comparison, a porphyry mortar with Louis XV mounts was sold at Christie’s London, 8 December 2011, lot 75. Another similar mortar was sold at Christie’s London, 20 March 2003, lot 116.