A fine Luristan cast bronze short-sword. It has a flanged hilt - a straight grip which widens to a fan-shaped pommel - and a triangular blade with square shoulders that tapers to a point. A typical Type IV sword, it features a penannular rib on top of the blade, likely made separately and cast on later. The handle originally would have contained an inlay of bone, limestone, metal or wood (now lost). There are several small chips to the edges of the blade. Some repair to the blade of the sword. Luristan bronze comes from the Lorestan Province, renowned in antiquity for its sophisticated metal working techniques. Weaponry and saddlery (such as harnesses or cheek guards) featured elaborate engravings, of which animals and mythical creatures were particularly common motifs. In ancient times a number of nomadic population, such as the Medes, the Kassites and eventually the Persians, settled in the area. Measurements: Length~33.5cm, Width~3.5cm (at widest point of blade) Provenance: Private London collection, UK 1990s-present