Luristan Bronze Spike-Butted Axe Head

£ 495.00

A beautifully cast Luristan bronze spike-butted axe head. At one end there is a cylindrical shaft with four furrowed ribs which terminate into short, thick spikes. From the third rib down the blade extends out from the top of the shaft opening in a downward curve, widening from a narrow neck. The upper and lower surfaces of the blade are thickened.

Date: 1250-650 BC
Condition: Fine condition. Some patination and earthly encrustations along with minor scratches to the surface. Minor chips to the cutting edge and bottom of the shaft consistent with age.

In stock

SKU: AP-31 Category: Tag:

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.

Weight 334.9 g
Dimensions L 20 x H 7.5 cm
Culture

Metal

Region

Reference: For a similar item: The Metropolitan Museum, 1988.102.2

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