1996 - Western Asiatic Bronze Axehead. Late 3rd-early 2nd millennium B.C. With a short socketted shaft, the plain rectangular blade broadening towards the cutting edge; side holes on the shaft. Cf. Mahboubian, H., Art of the Ancient Iran, London, 1997, no.402b, for similar; Gorelik, M., Weapons of Ancient East, IV millennium BC-IV century BC, Saint Petersburg, 2003, pl.XIX, nos.72-75, from Luristan. 446 grams, 11.4 cm (4 1/2 in.).

Western Asiatic Bronze Axehead. Late 3rd-early 2nd millennium B.C. With a short socketted shaft, the plain rectangular blade broadening towards the cutting edge; side holes on the shaft. Cf. Mahboubian, H., Art of the Ancient Iran, London, 1997, no.402b, for similar; Gorelik, M., Weapons of Ancient East, IV millennium BC-IV century BC, Saint Petersburg, 2003, pl.XIX, nos.72-75, from Luristan. 446 grams, 11.4 cm (4 1/2 in.). Ex Abelita family collection, 1980s-2000s. Unadorned weapons, especially axes, adzes, and picks, were made by Luristan craftsmen using simple clay or stone bivalve moulds, into which a core was inserted to form the socket for the shaft. Typically, the metallic composition consisted of a combination of arsenical bronze and copper, together with a small percentage of lead. TimeLine Auctions follows a rigorous vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists. See our website for more information.