Ancient Near East, Northwestern Iran, Luristan, ca. 1000 to 600 BCE. A fine cast-bronze mace head of minimalistic form with a cylindrical body that expands horizontally to a wide mid-rib. Presenting a central, tubular socket, both rims of the ancient weapon are lipped with one slightly more risen than the other. A lovely elevated ring additionally adorns the side with the lower lip, perhaps intended to help balance the weight of each end. The mace head was set on a shaft for wielding during combat and the hefty weight alone makes this piece deadly with the mid-rib ensuring the most damage possible. Trace amounts of gilding found across the surface, however, suggest that this example served more decorative or ceremonial purposes. The affluent group in Luristan society that patronized the metalworking industry and purchased decorative items like these were nomadic horsemen. Now enveloped in a rich, seafoam green patina, this piece would make a both unique and stunning paper weight! Size: 1.875" in diameter x 2" H (4.8 cm x 5.1 cm)

Provenance: ex-Estate of Eldert Bontekoe, Pegasi Numismatics, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA, acquired before 2000

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#158314

Expected abrasions commensurate with age. Otherwise, intact and excellent with lovely patina.