Sword; Luristan culture, 9th–8th centuries B.C.

Sword; Luristan culture, 9th–8th centuries B.C.
Bronze.
Measurements: 33.5 x 2 cm.
The Luristan culture flourished between the 11th and 8th centuries B.C., when it was wiped out by conflicts in the region during that century. They were a nomadic people originating from southern Russia, settled in the Iranian steppe and composed of various independent groups, lacking a national identity but sharing common cultural characteristics. They developed a rich metalworking culture, working primarily with bronze. They used it to create all kinds of functional pieces, as well as votive offerings and personal adornments. Their art was figurative, though cryptic and deeply symbolic, prioritizing expressiveness over naturalism. In the pieces from Luristan, a distinct axis of symmetry is always evident, as well as an ambiguity of forms and motifs that was a constant feature of this culture’s art, particularly in the depictions of deities.