1st-2nd century AD. An iron javelin or spearhead, conical socket with holes for the fastening rivets, strong midrib, remains of wood shaft inside. See for similar typology Deschler-Erb, E., Ad Arma! Römische Militär des 1st Jahrhundert n.Chr. in Augusta Raurica, Augst, 1999, no.64. 113 grams, 19cm (7 1/2"). Property of a London gallery; previously from a private British collection; formerly acquired from a European gentleman; acquired in the 1990s and earlier. Josephus (BJ,III,5,5,96) gives a detailed description of the shafted weapons of the Roman Cavalry: The horsemen have a long sword (machaira) on their right sides, a long pole (kontos) in their hand; a shield (thureos) also lies by them obliquely on one side of their horses, with three or more darts (akontes) that are borne in their quiver, having broad points, and not smaller than spears. Condition Report Fair condition, repaired, cleaned and conserved.