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LOT 1500
Western Asiatic Bronze Axehead
LATE 3RD-EARLY 2ND MILLENNIUM B.C.
4 1/2 in. (446 grams, 11.4 cm).
With a short socketted shaft, the plain rectangular blade broadening towards the cutting edge; side holes on the shaft.
ProvenanceEx Abelita family collection, 1980s-2000s.
LiteratureCf. Mahboubian, H., Art of the Ancient Iran, London, 1997, no.402b, for similar; Gorelik, M., Weapons of Ancient East, IV millennium BC-IV century BC, Saint Petersburg, 2003, pl.XIX, nos.72-75, from Luristan.
FootnotesUnadorned weapons, especially axes, adzes, and picks, were made by Luristan craftsmen using simple clay or stone bivalve moulds, into which a core was inserted to form the socket for the shaft. Typically, the metallic composition consisted of a combination of arsenical bronze and copper, together with a small percentage of lead.
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LOT 1500
Western Asiatic Bronze Axehead
Estimate £180 - 240€210 - 280 (for guidance only)$240 - 320 (for guidance only)
Opening Bid
£100 (EUR 116; USD 135) +BP*
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Luristan Bronze Axehead
12th-11th century B.C.Estimate: £200 - 300 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £111
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. 390 grams, 22 cm
Ex Abelita family collection, 1980s-2000s.
It 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. -
Luristan Bronze Spearhead
1000–650 B.C.Estimate: £100 - 140 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £5
Slender blade with raised midrib, a collar beneath the shoulders and a rectangular-section tang; set in a custom-made stand. 96 grams total, 20.5 cm including stand
Acquired on the UK art market. Private collection, Suffolk. -
Luristan Bronze Axehead
2nd-1st millennium B.C.Estimate: £100 - 140 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £50
With a short socketted shaft and flange to the mouth, a broadening blade towards the cutting edge. 374 grams, 12.3 cm
Ex Abelita collection, 1990s.
