Ancient Near East, northwestern Iran, Luristan, ca. 1200 to 800 BCE. A fabulous cast-bronze spear tip with a leaf-shaped profile, rounded shoulders, a thick shank with flared ends, and a narrow tang which tapers gradually to a point. A prominent midrib extends the length of the blade, eventually becoming integral with the shank. Each component of the weapon is enveloped in stunning layers of smooth patina in light-green, dark-green, blue-green, and russet hues. Custom museum-quality display stand included. Size: 1.875" W x 19" H (4.8 cm x 48.3 cm); 20" H (50.8 cm) on included custom stand.

Blades of this kind, with the shank separating the blade from the tang, occur in the Gurgan region of northeastern Iran, particularly associated with Tepe Hissar, Tureng Tepe, and Marlik. All three are important sites in Iranian archaeology. Tepe Hissar and Turang Tepe were a urban centers that had architectural and trade connections with similar cultures in Afghanistan and Seistan in southeastern Iran, demonstrating a wide geographic area of influence. Marlik is a mound that contained fifty-three rich tombs. Within these tombs, researchers found a large number of bronze spearheads, which they have theorized were very popular weapons for Marlik's warriors, who lived in a forested, mountainous region. This type of spearhead is a Type III, classified by its long, tapering triangular blade with a projected midrib. This particular weapon does not bear marks of having been repeatedly sharpened for use, as some from the area do, so it was probably made specifically to accompany a warrior in death.

Provenance: ex-private Los Angeles, California, USA collection

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#134894

Surface wear and minor abrasions commensurate with age as expected, slight bending to overall form, small losses to tip of blade, and minor nicks to blade edges, shank, and tang. Light earthen deposits and fabulous patina throughout.