Loading, please wait...
LOT 1581
Luristan Bronze Axehead
12TH-11TH CENTURY B.C.
8 5/8 in. (390 grams, 22 cm).
A spike-butted axehead with a short cylindrical socket with four furrowed ribs leading to four short spikes, blade with curved upper and lower edges and a convex cutting edge.
ProvenanceEx Abelita family collection, 1980s-2000s.
LiteratureCf. Moorey, P.R.S., Catalogue of the ancient Persian Bronzes in the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 1971, pl.2, nos.14-16, items 51-52; cf. also Musee' Cernuschi, Bronzes de Luristan, enigmes de l'Iran Ancien, IIIe-Ier millenaire av. J.C., Paris, 2008, p.44, fig.1,3; p.97, no.45, for similar types.
FootnotesIt is difficult to know whether this type of axe, given its high decoration in some specimens, was used as a weapon or was a symbol of rank and prestige, employed for ceremonial or cult purposes. However, considering that the concept of parade weapons did not exist in the surrounding areas in Antiquity, these axes were most probably used for both military and ceremonial purposes.
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.
LOT 1581
Luristan Bronze Axehead
Estimate £300 - 400€350 - 460 (for guidance only)$410 - 540 (for guidance only)
-
Medieval Socketted Iron Flail
Circa 15th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £910
Hand-forged tubular socket of conical form and with collar to mouth, substantial loop, chain of oval links and connecting ring; a facetted conical head with lateral spikes. 1.13 kg, 58.5 cm
Ex North American private collection, 1970s. -
Indian Iron Dagger with Glass Hilt
20th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £46
Comprising a swept curved blade with reinforced tip, reserved scrolled tendrils to each face; hilt with pierced fan to the pommel. 376 grams, 44.2 cm
Private collection, UK. -
Miniature Byzantine 'Greek Fire' Ceramic Fire Bomb or Hand Grenade
9th-11th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £98
Small and biconical in profile with narrow point; intended to be filled with explosive liquid and a wick, and used as a hand grenade. 89 grams, 67 mm
From an important specialist collection, London, UK, 1990s onwards. Accompanied by an academic paper by military specialist Dr Raffaele D'Amato, dated 15 July 2019 and titled 'Eastern Roman Empire - Greek Fire Bomb or Hand Grenade (μεσαίον kακάβιον) 9th-11th century AD'.
Apart from the use of siphons or manual flame-throwers called cheirosiphona, special corps of Roman soldiers employed terracotta grenades, in the form of small jars, abundantly evidenced in archaeological excavations. They were called μεσαία kακαβιά or κυτροκακάβια where the former had a bulbous shape and the latter a more cylindrical form.
