A bronze dirk: The blade and hilt cast in one piece; flanged hilt with a rectangular guard and semi-circular lappets on both sides which were used to secure the inlay, which would have been of wood or bone.
NB. Stand not included.
 
Iron Age Near East: circa 1000-800 BC.
 
Fine condition; the metal stable with an olive green patina over much of the weapon, a few light accretions in places.
Length 34.4 cms (13.5 ins)
 
Literature: Cf. Item 48; Catalogue of the Ancient Persian Bronzes in the Ashmoleon Museum: P.R.S. Moorey.
 
Provenance: Collection Robert S, UK. acquired UK arts market 1990-2010