A fine Luristan cast bronze ceremonial macehead. The globular body widens around the midpoint and tapers to a circular, lipped rim at either end. It features an olive green patina and shallow vertical grooves on the body. There are earthy encrustations over the piece and a small chip to one rim. A macehead may have been mounted on a shaft as a symbol of rank, perhaps a derivative from a weapon of similar form. Throughout the ancient world, maceheads varied significantly, and we know of a great number with different styles and decorations. Several important examples were shaped by the local metalworkers in Luristan and Gilan from the third millennium BC. These mace heads may not only have served a purpose in warfare, but also in religious contexts – perhaps being associated with piety in Luristan. Indeed, maceheads played an important role as votive offerings in shrines across Mesopotamia. Measurements: Width~4.3cm, Height~5cm Provenance: Ex London Collection, formed between 1990-present.