Sarmatian Iron Antennae Short Sword

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. A rare example of the antennae pommeled sword, cast in a single piece from iron. It has a double-edged blade that tapers to a sharp point and features a low mid rib. A short guard separates blade from the handle, which also has a wide, flat tang and the characteristic antennae pommel with ball-shaped terminals on either end of the "antennae". This sword comes from a legendary nomadic culture whose warrior women, documented by Herodotus, inspired the myth of the Amazons. Size: 3.3" W x 22.7" H (8.4 cm x 57.7 cm)

Warriors of all sexes were buried with weapons in Sarmatian graves, with cemeteries formed around the burial of a noble woman - believed to be the foremother of the family. Particularly in the steppe region of southern Ukraine, women have been buried with extensive jewelry, spindle whorls, and mirrors - all associated with women's graves in many cultures - alongside bows and arrows, iron knives, lances, and swords. Damage to their skeletal remains are consistent with them having fought and sometimes died in battles. Perhaps this sword once belonged to just such a warrior.

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

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#153312 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.