Bactrian Bronze Claw Axehead

3RD MILLENNIUM B.C.

4 3/4 in. (165 grams, 11.9 cm).

Egg-shaped with spiked prongs to the socket, narrow, rounded cutting edge.

Provenance

From a UK collection formed in the 1980s.
Property of an Essex, UK, gentleman.

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

CONDITION

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LOT 1515