bow; long
Description
Oak longbow, of which only the central section with the hand grip remains. The ends are plano-convex in section and hand grip elliptical. There is slight warping.
Found at Broadside Reservoir in 1889. Until 1963 this was thought to be a canoe paddle. As it is made from oak, a material with poor flexing qualities, it was probably only for ceremonial use.
Radiocarbon date of 1300bc+-85 (Q-1196).
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Object detail
Dimensions:0 - Whole:W 6.9cm (W 2 11/16")
The Denny Longbow; A Webb; 1978; Journal of the Society of Archer-Antiquaries
Public comments
There is evidence that certain arrowheads were purely for display. It seems reasonable to me to think that the Denny Bow, made with such skill, made into such a striking shape, and made from a material, oak, which is quite unsuitable for shooting arrows, is evidence that bows, too, could sometimes be purely ceremonial. Thanks for putting up such a beautiful photograph of the bow. I shall certainly try to visit the museum to see the real thing when I can.
- Stephen Lalor, Dublin. posted one month ago.