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LOT 1430
Western Asiatic Bronze Spearhead
2ND MILLENNIUM B.C.
16 1/4 in. (595 grams, 41.5 cm).
With foliate blade, rhomboidal in section, raised mid-rib, medium length stem widening at its base and forming a small stop, rectangular-section tang with bent terminal.
ProvenanceAcquired 1980-2015.
Ex Abelita family collection.
Cf. Gorelik, M., Weapons of Ancient East, IV millennium BC-IV century BC, Saint Petersburg, 2003, in Russian, see pl.XXXIII, no.82, from Tepe Hissar.
FootnotesThe specimen belongs to the category of tripartite spears with long pointed biconvex blade and single bevelled tang. They seem to be a Mesopotamian and Susian (Elamite) variant, and this type also includes decorated blades, like the spear from Tello with the inscription 'King of Kish'. Various specimens have been found in the layers of Tepe Hissar III site.
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LOT 1430
Western Asiatic Bronze Spearhead
Estimate £100 - 140€120 - 160 (for guidance only)$140 - 190 (for guidance only)
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