Georg Schifko Manouchehr Moshtagh Khorasanihttps://orcid.org/0000-0002-7663-1963

On the functional analogy between the ancient Persian aršti/arštay and the Maori taiaha from a weaponry point of view

Published: 2011-01-01 | DOI: 10.54799/ENAD1328

Abstract

A distinctive weapon of Achaemenid Persia was a lance (aršti/arštay) whose butt was encased by a spherical metal ferrule. The most probable purpose of this enhancement seems to be for the lance to serve also as a sort of club for striking at the opponent. In this respect this form of the Persian aršti/arštay resembles the taiaha of the Māori of New Zealand, a staff weapon which consists of a spiked end used to thrust and stab, whereas the other end is shaped into a flat blade and used as a blunt weapon. The aršti/arštay and the taiaha are compared and the similarities and differences between the two weapons are discussed.

How to Cite

Schifko, Georg, and Manouchehr Moshtagh Khorasani. 2011. “On the Functional Analogy Between the Ancient Persian aršti/Arštay and the Maori Taiaha from a Weaponry Point of View”. EAZ – Ethnographisch-Archaeologische Zeitschrift 52 (2):252-59. https://doi.org/10.54799/ENAD1328.
EAZ Cover Issue 2/2011, 52. Volume
EAZ Cover Issue 2/2011, 52. Volume
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