Ca. 1200-700 BC. A well-preserved cast bronze dagger featuring a triangular-shaped, double-edged blade. The hilt of the dagger is flanged and hollowed, with a sturdy grip for the wielder's hand. The hilt's interior space, created by the hollowing, allowed the dagger's weight to be evenly distributed and balanced, making it an effective weapon in close combat. Bronze was a preferred material for weaponry in ancient times because of its strength, durability, and relative abundance. It was also easier to shape and sharpen compared to other materials. Bronze weapons were essential in warfare and were used by armies of many ancient civilizations, including the Greeks, Egyptians, and Romans. Size: L:335mm / W:41mm ; 215g Provenance: Private UK collection; From an old British collection formed in the 1990s.