Fabulous Luristan Bronze Dagger w/ Silver Handle

Ancient Near East, Luristan, ca 1000 BCE. A fantastic find! A bronze dagger with a short, straight blade ending in an abruptly tapered tip. A thin handle made of a silver/gold alloy (72% silver and 19% gold) has an upturned pommel in the form of two horse's hooves. The region of Luristan, which encompasses the rugged Zagros Mountain chain, is famous for its metal craftsmanship that was above and beyond the skill level of contemporary groups. The affluent group in Luristan society that patronized the metalworking industry and purchased fine items like this dagger were nomadic horsemen. They would travel into towns and purchase swords and other bronze and iron objects from craftsmen there. Although these horsemen were pre-literate, we know from the records of the Elamites and other southern neighbors that these tribesmen functioned as mercenaries in the constant warfare between the Sumerians, Babylonians, Assyrians, and Elamites. When they died, they were buried in rock-covered tombs with weapons like this one. Size: 0.8" W x 8.15" H (2 cm x 20.7 cm); 8.5" H (21.6 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection; ex-private Hagar collection, Montana, USA

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#140443
Condition Report: Tip of dagger has been recently restored. Nice patina on the metal surfaces, with light encrustation on the bronze. Shape and form are excellent.