A fine Ancient Roman iron sword, featuring a long triangular blade that tapers to a point. At the base of the blade, a flat, slightly tapering hilt extends downwards from a rectangular chape. The hilt terminates in a large ring-shaped pommel. A reddish-brown oxidation, earthly encrustations, and signs of wear as consistent with age, such as chips to the edges, and scratches to the surface. Iron-working was introduced to Europe in the late 11th century BC and was widely used for producing weapons, tools, and utensils. Though both stronger and lighter, its greatest advantage was arguably the abundance of iron ore, which allowed for a reduction in production costs. Indeed, the initial development of iron weapons was most likely driven by a decline in the trade of tin, a primary component of bronze. The ring-pommel sword originated around the mid-second century AD during the Roman Empire and was used throughout Europe, particularly in Germany. It has been suggested that these types of swords had a Sarmatian influence. Measurements: (circa) L 33cm x W 4.2cm Provenance: Ex. London Collection, formed between 1990 - present.