C. 2000-700 BC. Luristan culture. A huge bronze battle axe with a short, downward angled blade, wedge-shaped cheek, and hammerhead butt, allowing the user to deliver a powerful crushing attack. The cylindrical shaft is decorated with five horizontal ribs. Bronze weaponry production flourished from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, axes, spears and arrows were exchanged via trade and war and are discovered in both civic and ritual context. An axe such as this one would have been an important symbol of rank, and have served a purpose in warfare, but also in religious contexts as axes were common votive offerings in shrines. Excellent condition; beautiful patina; on a custom stand.Size: L:88mm / W:326mm ; 1.95kg; Provenance: From the private collection of a South London art professional; previously in a collection formed on the UK/European art market before 2000.