Sword of Schalenknaupf ("bowl-pommel") type
Dateabout 1000–800 BCE
Mediumbronze
Dimensions66 × 4.8 × 8 cm (26 × 1 7/8 × 3 1/8 in.), 2 lb 8 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.6
DescriptionBlade of flattened diamond section. Medial ridge along blade flanked by multiple incised lines. Slight waist at ricasso, also marked by blunting of the edges and a distinct decorative treatment; the ricasso may be designed to allow the forefinger to rest here as in early modern swords. Blade is sandwiched and riveted into the cast grip, which also bears incised decorations of lines and circles, as well as four raised bands encircling it. Disk pommel similarly decorated. Hole in pommel-disk, probably for a lanyard. The disk is secured by a domed terminal, which may have been secured with some kind of glue or solder.The foilble of the blade is somewhat more corroded than the forte.
Label TextTrade networks in the ancient world developed from a very early date. This sword, adapted from Greek models, bears witness to the longstanding contact between the sophisticated cultures of the Mediterranean and the less developed societies to the north.ProvenancePurchased by John W. Higgins from Sumner Healey (NY) on April 30, 1929. Given to the Museum on December 15, 1931. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014
On View
Not on viewCollections
about 1600–1650
