The Naue Type II sword stands as one of the most influential weapons of the Late Bronze Age, bridging the technological gap between earlier riveted designs and the coming of the true iron sword. Widely adopted across Europe and the eastern Mediterranean, it exemplified both adaptability and standardisation in Bronze Age warfare.
The Naue Type II, named after Julius Naue who catalogued it in the 19th century, emerged in the 13th century BCE and spread rapidly through Europe, Anatolia, and the Near East. Its leaf-shaped blade, flanged hilt, and cast construction marked it as a sophisticated and deadly sidearm suited for slashing and thrusting.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Material | Bronze (tin and copper alloy) |
| Blade Length | Typically 50 to 70 cm |
| Blade Shape | Leaf-shaped with strong central midrib |
| Hilt Construction | Integrated flanged tang; some had riveted grip plates |
| Pommel | Rounded or flattened, part of the cast metal |
| Weight | Approx. 0.8 to 1.2 kg |
| Use Period | c. 1300–950 BCE |
| Regions Found | Italy, Greece, Central Europe, Anatolia |
History and Evolution
The Naue Type II evolved from earlier flange-hilted swords (e.g. Naue Type I) around 1300 BCE, probably first appearing in the Italian peninsula. Its design quickly spread, especially after being adopted by Mycenaean and later Sea Peoples cultures.
In Mycenaean Greece, the sword replaced more fragile weapons such as the long rapier-style bronze swords that had a tendency to bend or snap under combat strain. Its durability and effectiveness were such that it continued to be produced even as iron began to replace bronze in the 11th century BCE.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Strong midrib provided structural reinforcement for thrusting
- Leaf shape offered superior cutting power near the belly of the blade
- Flanged tang allowed for a secure hilt construction
- Versatile design suited for infantry combat in multiple regions
Disadvantages:
- Bronze limited its penetration against advanced armour
- Hilt construction could be prone to loosening without proper riveting
- Relatively short reach compared to some contemporary polearms
Comparison with Similar Weapons
| Feature | Naue Type II | Mycenaean Type B (Rapier) | Early Iron Age Swords |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Bronze | Bronze | Iron |
| Blade Shape | Leaf-shaped | Long and narrow | Variable, straight |
| Combat Style | Cut and thrust | Primarily thrust | Thrust or slash (depending on region) |
| Durability | High for bronze | Moderate, often fragile | Generally higher than bronze |
| Hilt Construction | Flanged tang or riveted | Riveted | Early examples mimic bronze styles |
The Naue Type II occupies a transitional role between Bronze Age craftsmanship and the emergence of the Iron Age. Its influence is seen in the form and function of early iron swords that retained its basic silhouette.
Legacy
The Naue Type II is arguably the most influential Bronze Age sword type. Its widespread use across Europe and the Mediterranean speaks to its reliability and battlefield performance. The weapon was not only a practical tool of war but also a symbol of status. Its form would echo into the Iron Age and even into some early Roman short swords.
It has been linked with the migration and warfare of the so-called Sea Peoples, and some scholars have argued that its spread coincides with periods of upheaval and military innovation.
Where to See Naue Type II Swords
- British Museum (London, UK) – Several examples from Mediterranean excavations
- National Archaeological Museum (Athens, Greece) – Naue II swords from Mycenaean contexts
- Museo Archeologico Nazionale (Naples, Italy) – Italic variants with fine casting
- Kunsthistorisches Museum (Vienna, Austria) – Central European examples
- Pergamon Museum (Berlin, Germany) – Anatolian and Levantine finds
Collector’s Guide and Auction Prices
Rarity: Authentic Naue Type II swords are rare but not unheard of on the collector’s market. Provenance and context are crucial.
Condition Factors:
- Intact blade and midrib
- Presence of original flanged hilt or rivet holes
- Patina preservation without active bronze disease
Auction Price Range:
| Condition | Estimated Value (GBP) |
|---|---|
| Museum-grade intact | £10,000 to £25,000 |
| Partial blade, worn | £2,000 to £6,000 |
| Fragmentary examples | £500 to £1,500 |
High-end specimens are typically sold through reputable houses like Bonhams, Hermann Historica, and Christie’s with full documentation and export permits. Unprovenanced or looted items can lead to legal complications and are best avoided.
The Naue Type II remains a landmark in ancient weapons development, bridging eras and civilisations. Its robust design and cultural reach mark it as a defining tool of the Late Bronze Age warrior.
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