Large Luristan Bronze Adze-Axe

Mainly tanged examples of barbed and leaf-shaped types. 220 grams total, 7.5-13.6 cm



Acquired 1990s. From the collection of a late Japanese weaponry collector.

Although some of them are different in shape, these arrowheads are apparently related types of a polythetic group. Two basic deltoid forms are represented: one has a sharp, flat blade, the ends of which extend to form wings or barbs, and a prominent midrib extending into a long tang that often has a stop; the blade shape varies from deltoid to more manifestly triangular. The other form has no barbs, but it has a prominent midrib extending to the tang, and a narrow leaf-shaped blade.

Comprising: a rectangular plaque with stepped void openwork and scrolled ends; a rectangular mount with rectangular and circular voids; a piriform mount with central void, trefoil to the interior; pierced twice for attachment; a pendant with broad loop, D-shaped plaque with three-lobed void. 70 grams total, 40-74 mm



Acquired before 1980. Ex London, UK collector. Property of a Scottish collector, acquired in 2013.

Belt of Antonine Age incorporated openwork designs, many of which show traces of Celtic decorative influence. According to Bishop & Coulston, these fittings were recognisable as the prototypes for those excavated in the 3rd century Roman military sites.

With narrow pointed blade and wide raised flange down centre, straight sides, well marked shoulders with wide tang, one upper hole for rivet. 149 grams total, 21 cm high including stand



From the possessions of a member of a German princely family, gathered in the late 19th century, until the 1930s. with Auction House CUSP, Vienna, Auction Antique Art from Asia and from the Eastern Mediterranean, 16 June 2012, lot 75 [Part].

The type was technically more advanced than previous types of blades in the Near East due to its shape and its slightly convex sides widening out near the point, which combined the advantages of the leaf-shaped and straight-sided forms.