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Sword

9th century
Not on view
A surprise find from the Tepe Madrasa area, this is one of the earliest Islamic-period swords known from Iran. The sword has an iron blade and was adorned with gilt-bronze elements on the cross guard and quillon. Parts of its wooden scabbard remain fused to the blade, which also was decorated with gilt-bronze mounts at the center and tip. The form of this sword, with its straight, double-edged blade, seems to be a Central Asian type.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Sword
  • Date: 9th century
  • Geography: Excavated in Iran, Nishapur
  • Medium: Iron, wood, gilded bronze
  • Dimensions: H. 28 1/8 in. (71.4 cm)
    W. 1 3/8 in. (3.5 cm)
  • Classification: Arms and Armor
  • Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1940
  • Object Number: 40.170.168
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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