Bronze objects started making appearances in the Near East during 3100BC, it was more durable against the other metals available during the time. Bronze revolutionised everyday objects ranging from vessels to agricultural tools to weapons. The Near East and Western Asia were the first regions to start using bronze which aided the rise of Mesopotamian civilisation of Sumer. Different decorative techniques were also developed, further embellishing weapons, belt plaques, tableware, statuettes and votive offerings. Bronze objects were created using a mould, the liquid bronze would be poured into a ceramic mould and once hardened, the mould would be destroyed. Therefore, each piece is individual and difficult to make an exact replica.
Western Asiatic Bronze Ceremonial ‘Eye’ Axehead
£ 750.00
A very fine Western Asiatic bronze socketed ceremonial axe-head, featuring a blunt fan-shaped blade and a sloping counterbalance to the rear. The edge of the blade is decorated with a thin crenelated band. The rim of the rounded socket is lined by a double border. The axe is further embellished with a bulging eye relief on each side of the socket. This apotropaic detail as well as the size and dull edges points to the axe having a ceremonial purpose. The piece is covered with an attractive reddish-brown patination. This style of axes are believed to have originated in Bactria, but some similar styles come from other provinces in the Achaemenid empire.
Period: Bronze Age
Provenance: Ex London collection of weapons, 1990s-2010s.
Condition: Very good. The piece is intact, the socket hole is unobstructed. A minor surface chip between the socket and the fan-blade.The surface of the bronze is covered with patination.
| Weight | 200.2 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | W 14 x H 13.5 cm |
| Region | Near East (Western Asiatic) |
| Metal | Bronze |
Reference: For a similar item, The British Museum, 2013,6001.2893
