Lot 1A
Ancient Western Europe, Spain, Celtiberian, ca. 4th to 1st century BCE. A testament to a warrior's resolve: a Celt-Iberian iron biglobular dagger, also known as a bispherical dagger, and an openwork, frame-type scabbard, dating from the tumultuous era between the 4th and 1st centuries BCE. This formidable weapon, its blade now bearing the rich tapestry of time, speaks of a period where Celtic and Iberian peoples forged a unique, often combative, cultural landscape. Its distinctive hilt, featuring the characteristic double-sphere design, offered a secure grip for hands that may have clashed against Roman legions or rival tribes. Accompanied by its iron sheath, a dark embrace that once guarded its lethal edge, this dagger is a tangible echo of fierce independence and the enduring spirit of a land where mountains met the sky and the clash of iron resonated through the ages. Size without sheath: 14.9" L x 2.9" W (37.8 cm x 7.4 cm); with sheath: 16.4" L x 4" W (41.7 cm x 10.2 cm)
This shortarm dagger, an impressive survivor from ancient Iberia, showcases a form that would later achieve greater renown as the Roman pugio, the standard sidearm of legionaries. The widespread adoption of this shape by the Roman army notably occurred during their campaigns against the Celtiberians in the first century BC, indicating a Roman appreciation for the native weapon's effectiveness. Intriguingly, the decorative square and teardrop-shaped cavities on the sheath of this particular example show evidence of ancient metal repairs, possibly undertaken to enhance the protection of the iron blade against the elements.
Provenance: ex-T.F. Holy Lands collection, formed since the 1960s
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.
#193855
- Condition: Chipping to blade as shown. Weathering and abrasions to surface, commensurate with age. Otherwise, intact and very nice with rich patina throughout.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 27.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.
View full terms and conditions
| 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 |