2nd-1st millennium BC. A bronze sword sheath, triangular in plan, terminating in an exaggerated and curled point; the outer face is pierced towards the top and has a raised midrib; the sheath is bent over towards the interior, which contains possible fragmentary weapon remains. Cf. Moorey, P., Catalogue of Ancient Persian Bronzes in the Ashmolean museum. No 60, for a sword contained in a similar sheath. 353 grams, 56.5cm (22 1/4"). From a Japanese collection, 1990s.