Luristan Bronze Dagger Ornate Handle w/ Snakes

Ancient Near East, Northwestern Iran, Luristan, ca. 1000 to 600 BCE. A fabulous bronze dagger with a thick hilt embellished with incised lines and relief circular motifs. On the central section of the grip is a raised circle with two diminutive serpents below four bands. The guard is a crescent shape that points downward below the edges of the blade. The blade tapers to a pointed tip with a large midrib running down the length with a "blood channel" depression in the center. This stunning dagger was best suited for stabbing motions and might have been used in tandem with a sword. The semi-nomadic Luristans were horsemen that acted as mercenaries during the constant warfare between the Sumerians, Babylonians, Assyrians, and Elamites. Weapons were prized possessions, and daggers like this piece were not just made to be used in battle, but also to show status in the grave or as votive weapons to be deposited in hoards. Size: 10.75" L x 1.75" W (27.3 cm x 4.4 cm)

Provenance: private Vindefontaine, France collection, purchased in the early 1970s from an Essex antique shop

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#159703
Condition Report: Nicks chips and losses to peripheries. Surface wear and abrasions commensurate with age. Rich green patina.