990 - A solid-hilted sword of the Erlach type from the Urnfield period, 12th century B.C.

A solid-hilted sword of the Erlach type from the Urnfield period, 12th century B.C. An Erlach-type triple-beaded sword from the Hallstatt A1 phase. Oval pommel plate with the typical perforations and decoration featuring circular eyes enclosed by arcs. Above each of the two outer arcs are additional diagonally incised dots. The tall, truncated-cone-shaped pommel is undecorated in the center. The underside of the pommel plate is decorated with characteristic concentric rows of triangular punts between lines running all the way around. Below this is the slightly bulging handle with slight constrictions at the top and in front of the curved wings, which wrap around the blade at the top. The upper constriction is narrower than the lower one; the handle’s maximum width is in the lower section. The handle is divided into sections by three ridges. Above each ridge is a pattern of three interconnected spirals, bordered by lines of diagonally incised dots, which are also incised across the outer coils of the spirals. Below the lowest ridge are two circular eyes with arcs above them. The two wings, which encircle the blade at the top in an overcast casting, form a semicircle in the center; the slightly beveled ends taper sharply inward. Above each end is an additional rivet, whose heads bear a patina of a completely different color, indicating a different alloy. The blade tapers diagonally by approximately 1 cm directly below the wings. The laurel-leaf-shaped blade bulges slightly, reaching its greatest width at the transition to the lower third, from where it tapers in a gentle curve toward the elongated tip. A clearly discernible, obtuse-angled ridge runs down the center. Beautiful, dark green patina that shines in the area of the hilt. The blade is more matte with slight incrustations. An exceptionally well-preserved and beautifully decorated full-tang sword of elegant design, without the nicks on the cutting edge that are usually present. Length 61.2 cm. CULTURAL HERITAGE! Provenance: Private collection in northern Germany, acquired in the 1980s through the German art market. Condition: I–II