Object Description
A Luristan ceremonial cast bronze mace head of tubular shape. The mace is decorated towards the top with a vertical register of lozenge protrusions, separated from the rest of the shaft by sets of horizontal grooved ridges. The base is pierced.
These types of objects are normally called mace-heads. They may have been mounted on a shaft as a symbol of rank, perhaps derivative from a true weapon of similar form.
Luristan bronze comes from the province of Lorestan, a region of modern day western Iran. In the ancient world it was settled by a number of peoples, such as the Medes, the Kassites, and eventually the Persians. Many small bronze objects have been found in the area – these items range from ornaments, to weapons, and even vessels. Luristan bronze goods have been found primarily in a funerary context. The Luristan Bronzes represent the art of a nomadic people, for whom all possessions needed to be light and portable.
Period: Late 3rd millennium BC.
Condition: Fine, with some marks of ageing and beautiful green patinat on the surface. Repaired to the top. A very fine example mounted on a custom-made stand.