Prehistoric Weaponry

This lovely pair would once have adorned a bronze sword and scabbard. The chape, on the right, formed a decorative and protective tip on the end of the scabbard. The hilt guard, on the left, sat at the top of the handle, protecting the hand from the opponent’s weapon.

Both items had been conserved previously, so out conservators’ first task was to remove the old laquer. Corrosion and soil deposits were then removed using hand tools and swabs moistened with solvents. They were then stabilised and re-lacquered, meaning that they are now positively glowing and ready for display!