Mace with Spherical Head
17th-18th century
Description
The mace consists of a large, spherical, steel head that features a thick, embossed, decorative band with scalloped edges running around the middle. The head is also divided into six segments by riveted and embossed vertical bands. At the top of the mace head is a band with a scalloped edge. The finial is molded into an abstract lotus shape. The head is hollow and has small beads within that create a rattling sound. It is welded to the haft, which is made of a single piece of solid steel. It thickens at the grip which is separated from the rest of the haft by three embossed, thick bands. The haft terminates into a small, roughly-chiseled knob.
Dimensions
77 cm (30 5/16 in.)
Provenance
Stuart Cary Welch (by 1999 - 2008,) by descent; to his estate (2008-2009,) gift; to Harvard Art Museum. Notes: Object was part of long-term loan to Museum in 1999.
Related Artworks
View MoreCopper alloy
3rd-2nd millennium BCEEuropeanBronze, the hilt inlaid with sheet gold
ChineseWatered steel with gold overlay
17th centuryPersianLead
Cast copper
3rd millennium BCEIndianLeaded bronze
7th-6th century BCEGreekCast bronze with gilded silver and engraved steel
19th centuryFrenchSteel blade with chased and chiseled decoration, wooden handle with decorative inlays of metal, stone, coral, and mother of pearl
19th-20th centuryIndonesianStone
20th centuryChineseCast copper
3rd millennium BCEIndianLeaded copper
3rd millennium BCEIranian