Medieval 'Thames' Iron Kidney Dagger

With long tapering blade with rounded shoulders and prominent mid-rib, the tang bent at tip with round stud terminal. 295 grams, 34.5 cm



Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.

The weapon belongs to the type 1 of the Khorasani spearhead classification, mainly from Marlik or Amlash areas. Similar pieces have been dated by Stutzinger to 1200-1100 B.C., but the period of use is attested to at least until the 1000 B.C.

Featuring a central circular void and a series of concentric triangular-section ridges and incorporating an X or cross motif; accompanied by a custom-made display stand. 1.36 kg total, 32.6 cm high including stand



with H. Cahn, Basel. Subsequently Tajan auction, 8 February 2008, lot 251.

Comprising a hoop with reserved triangular ornament on the edges and triangular plaque with foliage motifs, raised central panel with frond motif. 22.61 grams, 34.77 mm overall, 25.16 mm internal diameter



Acquired in the 1990s. Ex Cambridgeshire, UK, collection.

Archer rings in Late Byzantium and the medieval Balkans were connected with the employment of the powerful composite bow, but very often, in the 14th century they served as insignia of rank for aristocratic noblemen. Archaeological findings of archers’ rings originate mainly from fortified towns, including mining centres. Many were made in bone, simple in design and undecorated. In contrast, the ones made in bronze and silver were usually decorated in rather uniform style, consisting of floral motifs on the head, mostly tulip and foliage, and linear motifs around the edges. This decoration combined Turkish, Central European and Eastern Roman traditional patterns.