Elamite Bronze Arrowheads

Elamite Middle Period, c. 1200–900 BC, Iran

A fine and well-preserved pair of ancient bronze arrowheads dating to the Middle Period of the Elamite civilization. Each features a broad, inverted heart-shaped blade without a socketed stem. The blades are defined by pronounced flanged midribs that extend seamlessly into long, slender tapering tangs, designed to be inserted securely into a wooden shaft.

The elegant yet functional form reflects the advanced metallurgical skills of Elamite craftsmen. The strong central rib would have reinforced the blade upon impact, while the wide cutting edges maximized effectiveness in combat or hunting. Their balanced proportions and aerodynamic shaping speak to a practical understanding of warfare technology in the Late Bronze Age Near East.

The Elamites were a powerful and enduring civilization centered on the Iranian Plateau, whose history developed in parallel with that of ancient Mesopotamia. Throughout the second millennium BC, they maintained complex political and cultural relationships—both cooperative and adversarial—with neighboring powers including the Akkadians, Assyrians, and Babylonians.

This handsome pair of arrowheads offers a tangible connection to the martial traditions of ancient Iran and stands as a refined example of Near Eastern Bronze Age weaponry.

Good condition. Surface wear and abrasions commensurate with age and use. Dark green patina and minor encrustations over the whole of each arrowhead. Size approx. 7,1cm x 2,5cm x 0,5cm.

Provenance: Swedish private collection.

For a similar example see:

Arrowhead, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Accession Number: 62.40.16 (https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/325235)