Petite Luristan Bronze Spiked Mace Head

Ancient Near East, Northwestern Iran, Luristan, ca. 1000 to 600 BCE. A petite cast bronze mace head of a cylindrical form with protruding spikes. The spikes are arranged in three rows of five around the central socket - up and down the sides. While the spikes make this look like an aggressive weapon, the size perhaps indicates that this piece was used for ceremonial processions or burial with a deceased warrior, rather than for warfare. The affluent group in Luristan society that patronized the metalworking industry and purchased decorative items like these were nomadic horsemen. The surface of this mace is imbued with a lovely dark green patina that has developed over the ages. A near-miniature mace head that could be strung as a pendant! Size: 1.187" W x .875" H (3 cm x 2.2 cm)

Provenance: private Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA collection, acquired from Goldberg Auctions, Los Angeles, California, USA in 1968

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#160595
Condition Report: Perforation and chip to socket opening. Age commensurate surface wear and chips to spike tips. Lovely green patina!