Choose Category:

Home > Auctions > Starting 5th December 2023 > Bactrian Bronze Ceremonial Claw Mace

Print page | Email lot to a friend

Back to previous page


Use mousewheel to zoom in and out, click to enlarge
Gallery loading...

LOT 1100

Sold for (Inc. bp): £117

BACTRIAN BRONZE CEREMONIAL CLAW MACE
2ND-1ST MILLENNIUM B.C.
5 1/2 in. (237 grams, 14 cm).

Egg-shaped with spiked sleeves or prongs, the top of the weapon with narrow edge, the sleeves with small internal tangs for mounting.

PROVENANCE:
Acquired 1980-2015.
Ex Abelita family collection.

FOOTNOTES:
The 'claw mace' was an enigmatic ancient bronze weapon from the Bronze Age Near East. The hollow bulbous head was trailed by tines of varying lengths. It is believed that it was affixed over a wooden shaft and used like a club in combat, and not necessarily used as ceremonial weapon. The knife edge bulb end could have broken bones and proven to be a formidable striking weapon requiring no skill to wield. The tines would have not only been decorative, but have served to add strength below the striking end to prevent breakage. In battle, maces were often used by commanders to display rank when giving orders in battle and leading soldiers, inspiring leadership and power.

CONDITION
VETTING:
TimeLine Auctions follows a rigorous vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process

AUCTIONS:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.