Lot 53B
Ancient Near East, Luristan, ca. 1000 BCE. A large, well-formed cast bronze sword presenting a long, straight blade with a broad, flat ridge; it ends in a short, sharp point. The handle has a crescent-shaped guard and a thin handle with multiple areas for inlays - probably comprised of precious metals like gold or silver, but possibly of cut gemstones. A larger open area atop the hilt may have had an inlay as well. Size of sword: 18.75" L x 2.6" W (47.6 cm x 6.6 cm); size on stand: 14.75" L x 3" W x 14.45" H (37.5 cm x 7.6 cm x 36.7 cm)
This is particular sword was made via the lost wax casting, and this was a cast-on hilt style, meaning the blade was cast first and then the handle was cast onto the blade. You can see the detail showing how this was done, if you look closely where the blade meets the guard. The region of Luristan, which encompasses the rugged Zagros Mountain chain, is famous for its bronze work that was above and beyond the skill level of contemporary groups. The affluent group in Luristan society that patronized the metalworking industry and purchased fine items like this sword were nomadic horsemen. They would travel into towns and purchase swords and other bronze and iron objects from craftsmen there. Although these horsemen were pre-literate, we know from the records of the Elamites and other southern neighbors that these tribesmen functioned as mercenaries in the constant warfare between the Sumerians, Babylonians, Assyrians, and Elamites. When they died, they were buried in rock-covered tombs with their swords. Ah yes, such dramatic material, ideal for the silver screen!
Provenance: Ex-Private LA County collection formed over the period between 1980 and 2000.
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#119823
- Condition: There may be a loss to the top of the hilt - it has a ragged edge, but that may just be an inlay. Small losses to edges of blade with smooth patina overall and some small areas of encrustation.
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