Loading, please wait...
LOT 1494
Iron Age Celtic Iron Spearhead Display
CIRCA 2ND CENTURY B.C.-1ST CENTURY A.D.
8 1/4 - 11 1/4 in. (429 grams total, spearheads: 21-28.5 cm).
Comprising two spearheads, each with a split socket and leaf-shaped blade, shallow midribs. [2, No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom the collection of the famous author, writer and speaker, Gordon Bailey, Essex, UK; formed since 1968.
LiteratureCf. Allen, S., Celtic Warrior 300 BC-AD 100, Oxford, 2001, p.31, for similar.
FootnotesIn the Celtic world the spear was the primary weapon and symbol of a warrior. The Greek historian Strabo comments that the Celts carried two types of spear: a larger, heavier one for thrusting; and a smaller, lighter javelin that could be both thrown and used at closed quarters.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a 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.
-
Mesopotamian Bronze Arrowhead Collection
Circa 1800-900 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £247
Including leaf-shaped, barbed, and other small types. 330 grams total, 44-90 mm
Ex London, UK, collection, 1990s.
Paddle-shaped arrowheads with a flat, comparatively wide mid-rib and the blade shaped to a point were typical of Old Babylonian Empire. The shoulders were pronounced and the arrowhead had a rectangular section tapering tang. -
Chinese Serpentine and Gilt Bronze Ceremonial Axe
Qing Dynasty, 19th-early 20th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £98
Comprising a serpentine pelta-shaped blade with taotie motif, bronze socket formed as a stylised fish with a lizard on its back, open mouth to accept the staff; in archaic style. 513 grams, 23.5 cm
Acquired UK, in the 1980s. Property of a retired South West London doctor -
Luristan Bronze Arrowhead Point Group
Circa 12th-10th century B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £143
Each with a sturdy square-section tang, broad barbed head with midrib. 92 grams total, 15 cm each
Ex London, UK, collection, 1990s.
Two of these arrowheads seem to belong to the type V, subcategory type C, according to the classification of Khorasani and Negahban. In the four categories of triangular bronze arrowheads from Luristan, Marlik and Northern Iran individuated by Negahban, subtypes C and D of type V are larger arrow or javelin heads, C with barbed shoulders.
