Luristan Bronze Arrowheads

Ancient Near East, Luristan (Lorestan), c. 1200–800 BC, Northwestern Iran

A beautiful and well-preserved pair of copper-alloy arrowheads of classic Luristan type. Each features a flat deltoid blade cut from sheet bronze, with pronounced barbs and a flat tang. The short tangs remain intact and were originally inserted into wooden shafts to create complete projectiles. The surfaces display an attractive light green patina with areas of verdigris and earthy encrustation, bearing witness to their long burial and considerable antiquity.

These arrowheads belong to the celebrated tradition of the Luristan bronzes, produced in the rugged mountainous region of Lorestan in western Iran during the Late Bronze and Early Iron Ages. The area was inhabited by a succession of tribal and semi-nomadic peoples, including groups associated with the Kassites, Medes, and later the Persians. Their mobile way of life encouraged the production of durable, lightweight, and highly functional objects, many of which display exceptional metallurgical sophistication.

Weapons constitute a significant portion of surviving Luristan metalwork, ranging from swords and daggers to spearheads, axes, and arrowheads. Such objects were essential tools of hunting and warfare, but they also carried symbolic significance and were frequently deposited as grave goods. The elegant simplicity of these arrowheads reflects a practical design refined over generations, combining effectiveness with economical use of material.

Compact yet evocative, this pair of arrowheads offers a tangible connection to the martial traditions of the ancient Iranian plateau and stands as a fine example of the craftsmanship that has made Luristan bronzes among the most admired metal artifacts of the ancient Near East.

Good condition. Small chips on edges. Surface wear and abrasions commensurate with age and use, with encrusted green patina. Size approx. 7,2cm x 3,0cm x 0,2cm and 4,6cm x 3,0cm x 0,1cm. Sell as a set.

Provenance: Swedish private collection.

References and further reading:

Bronze and Iron: Ancient Near Eastern Artifacts in The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Oscar White Muscarella, New York 1988, pp. 289-92

Bronzes of Luristan, Oscar White Muscarella, Encyclopedia Iranica, 1989 (https://www.iranicaonline.org/articles/bronzes-of-luristan)

Luristan Bronze, Britannica, The Editors of Encyclopaedia, Encyclopedia Britannica, 24 May. 2018 (https://www.britannica.com/art/Luristan-Bronze)

Luristan bronzes i, the Field Research, Bruno Overlaet, Encyclopedia Iranica, 2006 (https://www.iranicaonline.org/articles/luristan-bronzes-i-the-field-research-)