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Lot 28
 
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A Harpoon    


Metal
c. 1500 B.C.E.

Gangetic Plains

Length: 12 in (30.5 cm)


A harpoon is a barbed spear or a short and heavy knife with reverse barbs on both sides between the blade and hilt, used for hunting and for fishing large water mammals.

This metal harpoon is very ancient, dating back to around 1500 B.C.E. It is heavy, with the front portion shaped like a knife with blades on both sides and reverse barbs to bite into the flesh of a large mammal. Unusual, but well shaped, such metal objects were hand crafted into perfection by early blacksmiths.

If one observes closely, a small hole can be seen on the handle. A rope used to be tied to this hole to ensure that the beast would not flee with the weapon. Due to limited resources, humans in those times had to ensure that they conserved their weapons prudently. In spite of being an extremely early piece, this harpoon is well made and solid. The pointed shape with barbs also gives it an aesthetic appeal.




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  Lot 28 of 55  

INDIAN ANTIQUITIES & MINIATURE PAINTINGS
25-26 APRIL 2012
Estimate
Rs 1,75,000 - 2,25,000
 $3,500 - 4,500

RESERVE NOT MET













 



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