Bronze weapons represent the most common examples of Luristan metalwork and some of the finest weaponry then available. Among these, shaft-hole axes, adzes and pick-axes have been reported in great numbers and in a variety of forms. They have been vital to understanding the chronology and development of bronze metallurgy in the Lorestan region. Specifically, axe-heads such as this fine example reflect the influence of Elamite and Mesopotamian metalwork in the area. Mostly recovered in funerary contexts, Luristan weapons were likely to have been used not only in everyday life, but also hold ceremonial purposes.
The adze axe was a fundamental axe of many Bronze Age cultures the world over. Its form was one that lends itself to dual purposes – for war and peace. As a tool, it functions to shape wood in fabricating a variety of objects or even wooden beams for construction. As a weapon, its heavy mass and compact form made it a very deadly striking and chopping weapon, even able to defeat light armour.
To learn more about Luristan culture and metallurgy, please see our relevant blog post: Ancient Luristan and the Luristan Bronzes
