Huge Sarmatian Iron Sword w/ Antennae Pommel

Central/Eastern Europe, Black Sea region, Sarmatians or other nomadic tribes of the region (Sargat, Sauromatian, Saka, or Scythian), ca. 4th to 2nd century BCE. Wow! A large, dramatic example of the famous antennae-pommeled sword, which replaced the acinaces as the weapon of choice in this region in the 4th century BCE. This sword is longer than most of this style, perhaps made for a very large individual, with a triangular blade, sharpened on both sides and ending in a dramatic point. The upper half of the blade on both sides features an incised motif of concentric triangles. This blade is almost flat in profile. There is no guard and the handle is trapezoidal, tapering to the "antennae", which have a series of horizontal bands incised at their nadir, giving them the appearance of bull horns. The handle would have been wrapped in something - perhaps leather - and the patina on the surface shows the impression of this material. Size: 3.45" W x 32.5" H (8.8 cm x 82.6 cm)

The Sarmatians lived in the region from modern day Ukraine into the Balkans and western Russia; their fierce women warriors, documented by Herodotus, may have inspired the Greek myth of the Amazons. Swords are commonly found in Sarmatian graves belonging to both women and men, and seem to have been prized items for most members of society. Many swords are individualized, as this one is, with its unique blade shape, incised motifs, and antennae form. It may also have once had a decorative guard.

Provenance: private Pembroke Pines, Florida, USA collection, acquired in the 1980s

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#153311 Dimensions: Condition Report: Small chips and nicks from blade edge, light pitting on surface, and very tip is lost; otherwise in great condition and the integrity of the blade is good. Patina professionally cleaned on the blade but not the handle. The motifs are still clear despite some light deposits.