C. 2000-700 BC. Luristan culture. A huge bronze battle axe with a short, upward angled, slightly curved blade, wedge-shaped cheek, slightly bulging circular socket and hammerhead butt, allowing the user to deliver a powerful crushing attack. Ribbed decoration is visible on the side of the socket. 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:69mm / W:299mm ; 1310g; Provenance: From an old British collection of Asian Art formed in the 1990 on the UK and European art market.