Within our cemeteries, it is common to find among different symbols objects that may reflect either the profession of the buried person, or act as a reference to their affiliations or membership (i.e. Freemasonry). They may also represent their hobbies, leisure or fields of interest.
The mortar and pestle found on a grave would generally represent a pharmacist or a doctor.
… by the way, our partners from Genoa in the Symbols project have also taught us that it is better to use a mortar and pestle made of marble or stone, rather than one made of wood…, to prepare a good and real “Pesto alla Genovese” salsa! Who knows, if you find any mortar and pestle in Genoa’s cemetery, perhaps it might symbolise the burial of a cook.