The Oedt sword: a note on brass and fire- gilding in the European Bronze Age

The Oedt sword is one of three exceptional but disputed examples offire-gilded metal objects in Europe dated to the Bronze Age. The sword has been re-investigated to determine its chemical composition and its method of manufacture. Metal analyses and X-ray computer tomography revealed a peculiar construction of the hilt, which is obviously a modern addition to the blade which is most likely of Bronze Age date.