Description:

Central Asia, India, Gangetic Basin, Copper Hoard Culture, ca. 1000 BCE. A long, leaf-shaped copper spearhead featuring a dramatic sequence of multiple barbs along its edges and two offset perforated loops near the solid stem tang. Such barbed implements are often classified as harpoons, their design well-suited to hunting large fish or game. Yet their archaeological contexts reveal a more complex story: many examples have been recovered not from habitation sites, but from temples - including significant finds at the Temple of Somesvar Mahadeva in 1891 - indicating a likely votive or ceremonial role in addition to practical use. The distribution of these hoard objects has led scholars to suggest active trade routes and cultural influence stretching from the Ancient Near East, particularly Luristan, into the Gangetic Basin. A striking artifact that bridges utility, ritual, and the reach of early interregional exchange. Size: 14.75" L x 1.5" W (37.5 cm x 3.8 cm)

Provenance: private Dayton, Maryland, USA collection

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)

PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.

#195928

  • Condition: Bending to barbs and tang. Pitting and chips across the surface. Heavy green patina and oxidation.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

August 7, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 25% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000