Massive Luristan Bronze Tanged Spear Head - Ancient Persia (Luristan), Circa 1200-800 BC.
A very large and fine spearhead in heavy bronze. This point is an exceptional example – heavier than most spearheads of the era. Because of the unusual size, this was likely a ceremonial blade. It is distinguished by a leaf-shaped blade with a raised central rib, which adds weight and strength to the point.
The graceful tang is round in cross section and tapers to the terminus which is turned outward. The surface has a fine deep green patina that adds to the artistic effect of this well-crafted weapon. Excellent condition with minor edge roughness and surface deposits.
Length: 21 inches, Width: 3 ½ inches
For a smaller similarly shaped spear head with turned tang see Muscarella, “Bronze and Iron” - Metropolitan Museum of Art, plate 171.
Provenance: Ex-collection D. R. Zauche, MD.
Luristan bronzes refer to items dating from roughly 1500-500 BC that have been excavated since the late 1920’s in the Harsin, Khorramabad and Alishtar valleys of the Zagros Mountains of western Iran, especially at the site of Tepe Sialk. Scholars believe they were created by either the Cimmerians or by such related Indo-European peoples as the early Medes and Persians. Luristan weapons were highly sought after by warriors of many cultures because of their quality, balance and durability.
