This image gallery showcases 28 styles of swords from around the world. This non-exhaustive list highlights different methods of swordmaking from throughout history.
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Assyrian Sickle Sword
A bronze Assyrian sickle sword that is believed to have belonged to the Assyrian king Adad Nirari I (r. 1307–1275 BCE). The blade bears the cuneiform inscription: "Palace of Adad-nirari, king of the universe, son of Arik-den-ili, king of Assyria, son of Enlil-nirari, king of Assyria". The inscription appears on both sides of the blade and along its (non-cutting) edge. Both sides of the blade bear an engraving of an antelope reclining on a platform. The sword likely served a ceremonial purpose as a symbol of royal power, and may not have been used in actual battle.
Made in northern Mesopotamia, c. 13th century BCE. Length: 54.3 cm (21 in). Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York.