c. 2000-1000 BC, Amlash culture. A rare bronze age axe head with short, curved blade, arching cheek, round socket, elongated shoulder and spiked butt. The upper part of the shoulder is ornamented with two male faces, each featuring a prominent nose, wide eyes and a full-lipped mouth, while at the bottom, a series of four horizontal ribs provide additional grip. Bronze weaponry production flourished from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, axe heads, spears and arrows were exchanged via trade and war and are discovered in both civic and ritual context. An axe head 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 axe heads were common votive offerings in shrines. The Amlash culture refers to an assortment of historic materials and periods in Northern Iran, enduring for many centuries. Excellent condition; beautiful patina; on a custom stand. Size: L:133mm / W:253mm ; 710g; Provenance: From an old British collection of Asian Art formed in the 1990 on the UK and European art market.