Solid-hilted bronze sword

Cultureprobably Central European

Dateabout 1400–1200 BCE

Mediumcast bronze

Dimensions61 × 5.7 × 4.4 cm (24 × 2 1/4 × 1 3/4 in), 1 lb 14 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.473

DescriptionLong, gently tapering cast bronze blade of elliptical section with rounded medial rib on both faces (maximum thickness at rib about 1/4"). Cast hilt with grip tapering to ends, ovoid pommel at right angle to axis. Lower end curves over shoulder of blade where secured by pair of rivets. Grip faceted. Traces of incised decoration on grip; most visible are rings around the grip near the pommel, with heavily effaced and occluded traces of circles with central and perhaps peripheral dots along the faceted surfaces.
Label TextThis sword is rather short and stocky compared to later iron and steel swords, reflecting the limitations of the material: a longer and lighter bronze sword would be likely to break.ProvenancePurchased by John W. Higgins from Sumner Healey, N.Y. on 30 April 1929. Given to the Armory 15 December 1931. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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