C. 2000-700 BC, Luristan culture. A Luristan axe head with a short, curved, downwards facing blade, arched cheek, reinforced rounded poll with four spikes on the reverse which is fashioned into the shape of an animal, possibly a goat. 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. A mace 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 mace heads were common votive offerings in shrines. Good condition with a beautiful patina; mounted on custom-made stand.Size: L:88mm / W:162mm ; 525g; Provenance: From an old British collection of Asian Art formed in the 1990 on the UK and European art market.