A finely cast Luristan bronze blade. It features a long triangular blade which curves to a flared base with a flattened mid-rib, and a flattened tang. There is a rivet hole on either side of the mid-rib and at the bottom of the tang. The edge of the blade displays some minor chips. The end of the tang is also chipped. A beautiful patination has developed and earthly encrustations remain on the surface. Throughout the Ancient World, from Greece to Persia, battles raged. The skilled Ancient Persian craftsmen, particularly in the Luristan area, developed great skill in bronze working, producing some of the finest weaponry then available. Luristan bronze comes from the province of Lorestan, a region situated in the area of modern South-Western Iran. In ancient times a number of nomadic populations, such as the Medes, the Kassites and eventually the Persians, settled in the area. Due to the nomadic nature of the tribes, none of the Luristan bronzes were of great size, since it was required for them to be light and portable. Their artwork mainly comprises ornaments, vessels and weapons. Most of Luristan bronze items have been recovered in funerary contexts. Measurements: L 24.1 cm x W 5.4 cm Provenance: Ex. London Collection, formed between 1990 - present.