2000-700 BC, Luristan culture. Bronze axe head with an elongated, slightly curved blade, a tapering cheek, a short, cylindrical shaft covering and a wedge-shaped butt. 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. Superb condition; beautiful patina; on a custom stand.Size: L:73mm / W:160mm ; 735g; Provenance: Important London collection of Ancient art; formed in 1970s then passed by descent.