Ancient Near East, northwestern Iran, Luristan, ca. 1000 to 600 BCE. A wonderful example of a stocky bronze mace head cast via the lost wax (cire perdue) technique. The ovoid mace exhibits a pair of mammiform beater heads adorned with several shallow grooves that radiate from both ends, and recessed strap grooves arch on either side of the wide hafting shaft. Elongated triangular panels on the top and bottom of each half are delicately incised with leafy, chevron-shaped motifs, and the entire weapon is enveloped in gorgeous layers of mottled brown, green, and russet patina. Size: 2.2" L x 1.8" W (5.6 cm x 4.6 cm); 3.4" H (8.6 cm) on included custom stand.

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 bronze and iron objects from craftsmen there. They were often buried with these beautiful items, and we know of them from tombs.

Provenance: private J.H. collection, Beaverton, Oregon, USA, acquired in September 2005; ex-Tom Cederlind collection, Portland, Oregon, USA

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#154157

Minor abrasions to both hemispheres, recessed groove, and hafting shaft, with light encrustations, and softening to some finer incised details, otherwise intact and excellent. Fantastic patina throughout.