6th-5th century BC. An iron short sword comprising a leaf-shaped blade with midrib, bow-shaped lower guard, flat grip and T-shaped pommel; mounted on a custom-made stand. See Khorasani, M.M. Arms and Armour from Iran. The Bronze Age to the End of the Qajar Period, Tübingen, 2006, pp.72-75 for discussion. 2.3 total, 63.3cm including stand (25"). From the family collection of a South East London collector; formerly acquired in the late 1950s. Very fine condition. Professionally cleaned and restored.