Luristan Bronze Mace-Head

$499.17

This mace head comprises a slender, hollow-cast metal tube, which is flanged at each end. There is a melon-shaped swelling of eleven segments nearer to one end, and the base is pierced. Three ridges run around the tube, above and below the swelling.

Date: Late 3rd Millennium BC
Condition: Fine, with some marks of ageing on the surface. A very fine example mounted on a custom-made stand.

In stock

SKU: PM-67 Category: Tag:

The Luristan civilization developed sophisticated and prolific metal-working technology from the third millennium BC. With manufacture not suffering decline until the seventh century BC, over this extensive period metalworkers were essential for supplying and arming both local wealthy patrons and the warring factions of the day.

A macehead may have been mounted on a shaft as a symbol of rank, perhaps a derivative from a weapon of similar form. Throughout the ancient world, maceheads varied significantly, and we know of a great number with different styles and decorations. Several important examples were shaped by the local metalworkers in Luristan and Gilan from the third millennium BC. These mace heads may not only have served a purpose in warfare, but also in religious contexts – perhaps being associated with piety in Luristan. Indeed, maceheads played an important role as votive offerings in shrines across Mesopotamia.

To discover more about the Luristan Empire, please visit our relevant blog post: The Luristan Empire: Beauty of Bronze.

Weight 310.2 g
Dimensions L 14 cm
Culture

Region

Metal

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