ITEM: Arrowhead
MATERIAL: Bronze
CULTURE: Elamite, Middle period
PERIOD: 1200 - 900 B.C
DIMENSIONS: 137 mm x 26 mm
CONDITION: Good condition
PROVENANCE: Ex English private collection, acquired between 1980 - 1990

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 3 to 5 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the hammer price, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

Elamite period arrowheads, dating from roughly 2700 to 539 BCE, provide valuable insights into the military practices and technological advancements of ancient Elam, a civilization that flourished in what is now southwestern Iran. These arrowheads, typically made of metal such as bronze or iron, were integral to Elamite weaponry and warfare. The arrowheads varied in design, reflecting changes in military tactics and advancements in metallurgy over the centuries. Common forms include leaf-shaped, barbed, and triangular designs, each serving different purposes in combat, such as penetrating armor or causing more severe wounds.

The craftsmanship of Elamite arrowheads showcases the technological expertise of the period. Early Elamite arrowheads were often forged from bronze and exhibited simple, functional designs. As technology progressed, there was a shift towards more sophisticated designs with improved materials, such as iron, which allowed for sharper and more durable points. This evolution in arrowhead technology reflects broader trends in ancient warfare, including the increased use of metal weaponry and the refinement of weapon-making techniques. The quality and design of these arrowheads also indicate the skill of Elamite metalworkers and their ability to adapt to changing military needs.

Elamite period arrowheads also hold archaeological significance, as they have been found in various contexts, including battle sites, defensive structures, and burial sites. Their presence in these locations helps researchers understand the scale and nature of conflicts in ancient Elam. In burial contexts, arrowheads might be included as grave goods, symbolizing the warrior status of the deceased or reflecting the martial culture of the time.