A Luristan cast bronze spearhead featuring a leaf-shaped blade and a rat tail tang, which would have been inserted into a wooden shaft. The surface of the blade is fairly flat without a distinct midrib. Minor chips to the blade. Some earthly encrustation and an attractive green patination are visible on the surface. Luristan bronze comes from the province of Lorestan. In ancient times, 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 was of great size since it was required for them to be light and portable. Their artwork mainly comprises ornaments, vessels and weapons. Most Luristan bronze items have been recovered in funerary contexts, serving both an every-day and a ceremonial purpose. Measurements: L 15.9cm x 3.4cm Provenance: Ex London Collection, formed between 1990-present.