A LURISTAN BRONZE SOCKETED AXE HEAD

An authentic Bronze Age socketed bronze axe head, dating to the late 2nd to early 1st millennium B.C. (circa 1200–800 B.C.) and likely originating from the Near East or Luristan region, features a thick cylindrical socket and an asymmetrical, drooping crescentic blade. Cast via traditional two-piece mold methods, the artifact is distinguished by a finely rendered, symmetrical herringbone or radiating chevron pattern running down its upper spine, creating a stylized tree-like geometric motif. The piece is in excellent antique condition, retaining its complete structural form with an open, unobstructed shaft socket. The bronze displays a highly desirable, multi-layered archaeological patina consisting of thick crusts of vibrant green malachite intermingled with areas of reddish cuprite and light earthy encrustations. The cutting edge shows minor jagged notches and surface pitting consistent with its ancient utilitarian use or long-term burial. Bronze Part Length: 3.5 in . Height: 2.5 in. Provenance: Collection from Professor of University of Chicago in IL USA .

Condition
The artifact is in excellent antique condition, retaining its complete, unbroken structural form with a fully open and unobstructed shaft socket. The cast bronze body is solid and stable, displaying a highly desirable, thick, multi-layered archaeological patina. This vibrant surface crust consists of dense green malachite formations intermingled with deep reddish cuprite spots and light, naturally adhered earthy encrustations from long-term burial. The cutting edge shows minor jagged notches, faint blunt wear, and shallow surface pitting, all of which are authentic diagnostic indicators consistent with ancient functional use or age-related weathering rather than modern damage.