A finely cast Bronze Age bronze dirk with a flanged hilt. It features a triangular blade with a subtle, flattened, wide mid-rib. The hilt, featuring a rectangular guard and a wedge-shaped pommel, is flanged and would have been designed to accommodate an inlaid wood or bone panel, which is now missing. There is a perforation to the pommel, possibly once held a rivet which helped securing the inlays in place. A beautiful green patina and earthly encrustations to the surface. Signs of wear as consistent with its age such as chips and scratches to the edges. In ancient times a number of nomadic populations, such as the Medes and the Kassites, settled in the Western Asiatic area. Due to the nomadic nature of the tribes, none of the bronzes were of great size, since it was required for them to be light and portable. Excavated items often included weapons, tools, and finials, as well as small amulets and fittings. Everyday objects are also found including pins and bracelets. Their artwork mainly comprises ornaments, vessels and weapons. Archaeological evidence suggests that the bronze objects often serve ceremonial functions given their funerary contexts. Measurements: (circa) L 33cm x W 3cm Provenance: Ex. London Collection, formed between 1990 - present.