Spearhead from Aston on Trent

3D Model

A copper alloy spearhead with protected loops featuring lunate apertures from Aston on Trent, dated to the Late Bronze Age (c. 1140–1020 BCE). The object was found at Shardlow Quarry. No further contextual information is known.

The object is well finished—no casting evidence is visible. However, parallel striations on the socket and blade indicate grinding, some of which may also relate to (re)sharpening. The blade appears either unused or well maintained. Micro-notches observed on the cutting edges are likely post-depositional rather than use-related.

By permission of Derby Museums

Project: A New History of Bronze

Author: Dawid Sych