Iron-working was introduced to Europe in the late 11th century BC and was widely used for producing weapons, tools, and utensils. From circa 1200 to 700 BC, iron arrowheads developed alongside bronze weapons, and were reintroduced in the Roman Period (circa 300 BC – 450 AD). By the Byzantine era, iron completely replaced bronze arrowheads. Iron is lighter and stronger than bronze and its greatest advantage was the abundance of iron ore, which allowed for a reduction in production costs. Indeed, the initial development of iron weapons was most likely driven by a decline in the trade of tin, a primary component of bronze. With the shift to iron, weapons and utensils were no longer cast, but individually hammered into shape, which slowed down the production process. This translated to a simplification of arrowheads designs, with simple tanged flat bladed typed or bodkin point becoming the most common shapes.
Selection of Roman Period Iron Arrowheads
£ 45.00
A selection of Roman period iron arrowheads in different shapes and sizes. Different arrowheads were made for different purposes. Wide-bladed arrowheads, such as item A and D, were used for attacking flesh, as their shape and the eventual presence of barbs made them difficult to remove from the skin. Arrowhead B demonstrates three protruding blade edges, joining to form a sharp point. Arrowhead C features a barbed blade, which descends into a stem and tang, with a prominent raised mid-rib which extends to a point at the top.
Priced individually
Condition: Good condition. Some encrustation to the surface. Minor damage to the barb on Arrowhead C.
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