Blade

Unknown Artist

500 BCE–300 CE

Blade by Unknown Artist

Medium

Bronze

Dimensions

H. 5 7/16 in. (13.8 cm)

Classification

Metalwork

Culture & Period

Thailand · Bronze and Iron Age period

Department

Asian Art

Museum

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY

Credit

Samuel Eilenberg Collection, Bequest of Samuel Eilenberg, 1998

Accession Number

2001.433.152

Art Historical Context

This sleek bronze blade, hailing from ancient Thailand during the Bronze and Age (500 BCE–300 CE), a glimpse into the sophisticated metalworking of Southeast Asia's early civilizations. Measuring just 5 7/16 inches (13.8 cm) in height, it exemplifies the practical yet finely crafted tools and weapons of the era, likely used for cutting, combat, or ceremonial purposes. compact form highlights the portability and everyday utility prized by communities in what is now Thailand. Bronze, a hallmark alloy of prestige and durability, was cast using advanced techniques that marked a technological leap...

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