Description:

Ancient Near East, northwestern Iran, Luristan, ca. 1000 to 600 BCE. A fine bronze short sword made by highly-trained urban artisans using the lost wax (cire perdue) casting method. The blade was cast first, and then the handle was subsequently cast and attached to the end. The recessed grooves in the handle were meant to hold inlays of stone or bone. The blade boasts a tapering form with sharpened edges, a shallow midrib along both sides, and a pointed tip. Short swords like this were not just made to be used in battle, but instead to show status in the grave or as votive weapons to be deposited in hoards. There is a strong tradition in the ancient Near East of swords and other weapons being associated with the gods. Size: 1.625" W x 18.125" H (4.1 cm x 46 cm).

Provenance: private southern California, USA collection, acquired before 2000

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#145483

  • Condition: Original handle inlays missing. Slight bending to overall form, minor nicks to blade edges and handle, with softening to incised midrib, and light encrustations. Nice earthen deposits as well as fabulous patina throughout.

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May 9, 2019 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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