Ancient Near East / Central Asia, Sasanian (Sassanian / Sassanid) Empire, ca. 6th to 7th century CE. An incredible sword with a remarkable 91% to 94% silver repousse hilt and scabbard, the depressed and raised scale patterning representative of bird feathers. The wood scabbard and red leather are modern replacements to protect the ancient iron blade, and the ancient silver chape and locket contains the distinctive projecting mounts that once held 2 suspension straps to wear on a belt at an angle to draw the blade easily while on horseback. Sasanian kings are often depicted with such swords at their belt, this style was adopted from the pre-Islamic Hunnish nomads. The feathery motif is symbolic of the Zoroastrian god of victory, Verethragna (later Vahram or Bahram). The Varagn, a bird of prey, was an incarnation of the god and falcons were associated with the deity - feathers and wings signifying power were frequently incorporated into Sasanian iconography to associate rulers with triumph. Size: 34.75" L x 3" W (88.3 cm x 7.6 cm); silver quality: 91% to 94%

For a similar example of the Sasanian silver feather pattern, please see the Metropolitan Museum of Art's website, accession number: 1988.102.44.

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010; ex-Christie's, New York, USA, June 2000.

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#175753

x-Ray images show what's inside the sheath (as blade can not be removed from sheath without damage). Silver repousse and iron blade are ancient. The wood core of handle, sheath, and the red leather are modern replacements. The blade cannot be removed from scabbard without damaging sword- iron is corroded to scabbard. Silver chape repaired, infill and adhesive to break line radiating from chape tip to opening. Losses to verso and perforations on both chape and handle. Light flaking to silver and iron. Dark toning and mineral deposits throughout.