Luristan Bronze Spike-butted Axe head
$1,381.98
A Luristan cast bronze spike-butted axe head, featuring a cylindrical shaft-hole with four furrowed ribs terminating at the back with short, thick spikes. The blade extends out from the top of the shaft-hole and springs from the third rib down at the bottom in a downward curve, forming a narrow neck. The upper and lower edge of the blade are strengthened by thickening. Some patination and earthly encrustation remain on the surface.
The axe head is supplied with a custom-made stand.
Date: 1250-650 BC
Provenance: The J.L Private Collection, Surrey. Previously from a private German collection, Cologne; acquired in the 1960s
Condition: Fine condition. Weighs 557.2g with the stand.
In stock
Bronze weapons represent the most common examples of Luristan metalwork and some of the finest weaponry then available. Among these, shaft-hole axes, adzes and pick-axes have been reported in great numbers and in a variety of forms. They have been vital to understanding the chronology and development of bronze metallurgy in the Lorestan region. Specifically, axe-heads such as this fine example reflect the influence of Elamite and Mesopotamian metalwork in the area. Mostly recovered in funerary contexts, Luristan weapons were likely to have been used not only in everyday life, but also hold ceremonial purposes.
To discover more about the Luristan Empire, please visit our relevant blog post: The Luristan Empire: Beauty of Bronze.
