Western Asiatic Comb-Backed Axehead with Lion
Similar Sale History
View More Items in Axes & HachetsRelated Axes & Hachets
More Items in Axes & Hachets
View MoreRecommended Weapons & Armor
View MoreItem Details
Description
13th-6th century B.C. A bronze axehead with ribbed openwork socket terminating in a butt formed of four cones, the blade expanding from the mouth of a growling lion with a flowing mane; mounted on a custom-made display stand. Cf. Godard, F., The Art of Iran, London, 1965, item 99, for comparable; 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 Musée Cernuschi, Bronzes de Luristan, énigmes de l'Iran Ancien, IIIe-Ier millenaire av. J.C., Paris, 2008, p.44, fig.1,3; p.97, no.45, for similar types; cf. also The Metropolitan Museum, accession numbers 32.161.2 and 32.161.3, for comparable examples. 550 grams, 26.5 cm (1.36 kg total, 16 cm high including stand) (10 1/2 in. (6 1/4 in.)). Acquired before 1983. Ex London gallery, 1990s. It is difficult to know whether this type of axe, given its high decoration in some specimens, was used as a real weapon or was just a symbol of rank and prestige, employed for ceremonial or cult purposes. Considering, however, that the concept of parade weapons did not exist in the surrounding areas, these axes were most probably used for both military and ceremonial purposes. It is interesting that a lion’s head motif appears as a decorative feature on many axe-heads, such as our specimen. The lion’s open jaws form the base of the axe head, and the blade is attached to this; the lion is a symbol intended to give the weapon the strength of the most powerful beasts of the animal kingdom. [A video of this lot is available to view on Timeline Auctions Website.]
Buyer's Premium
- 35%
Western Asiatic Comb-Backed Axehead with Lion
Estimate £1,800 - £2,400
4 bidders are watching this item.
Shipping & Pickup Options
Item located in MayFair, London, ukSee Policy for Shipping
Payment
TOP