**Originally Listed At $400**

Ancient Near East, modern day Iran, Luristan, ca. 1000 to 700 BCE. Ancient Near East, Luristan, ca. 1000 BCE. This is a large bronze dagger blade or possibly short sword, made from lost wax casting. The blade is wide at its hilt, with a sturdy tang, and tapers into a long triangular shape with a low ridge down its length. 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 weapons. Comes with custom stand. Size: 1.5" W x 16.1" H (3.8 cm x 40.9 cm)

Provenance: Ex-Private Ventura County, CA collection acquired before 1980

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#118347

Crack in the middle that does not go all the way through; the other side from the crack has an inward bend.