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Sinew-Backed Ancient Hellenic Olive Bow

You can also order this bow and see more photos + video here :

https://www.etsy.com/listing/4432973524/sinew-backed-ancient-hellenic-olive-bow?ref=shop_home_active_1&logging_key=02e1dcc34dbb6aa5afe6128fcbc85c6950d8baf0%3A4432973524

 

* Reconstructed according to ancient Greek vase drawings - Hellenic style of bow
This paradoxical style of bow was observed in the depictions dated in 5th century BC in ancient Greece - mostly in the hands of goddess Artemis.
There is no clear explanation of such a construction - since is adverse to the usual known bow appearance and there is not any written evidence for its manufacturing. It is possible that it was built this way to create a strong - short style bow and the D flex was added to distribute the stress across the limbs. ( more details about this theory here : https://youtu.be/4UzCxAs5UTg)
Also - documented trace of bow evolution in ancient Greece and this particular bow style, here: 
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eKSKHOfW2h38pq_JJLbPcUaqWapEaeLs/view

For unknown reasons this straight deflexed bow with twisted tips has disappeared from the traditional archery background for more than 2500 years. Now it's back - fully functional. 
Purchase this item for its historical value and uniqueness.

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✅ Specifications :

Nock To Nock distance when stringed: 112 cm
Weight: 650 gr
Arrow pass 3,7 cm
Brace 14 cm ( 5.5 inches )
Draw :
42lbs@18inches
48lbs@20@inches
52lbs@23inches
**The bow's integrity was successfully tested with 150 performance shots. See it in Action here: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083520751410

This handcrafted bow is a tribute to tradition, artistry, and performance.
* Its heart is a seasoned olive wood core, sinew-backed with a single layer bonded by authentic hide glue—offering both flexibility and strength rooted in time-honored technique.
* The tips are sculpted into graceful seahorse forms, each fitted with antler inserts not only in the string nocks but also on the reverse side—adding structural support and a touch of wild elegance. These dual antler accents echo the bow’s connection to nature and myth.
* Wrapped in white leather, the back features handprinted gold motifs sealed with flexible varnish for lasting brilliance.
* The grip is adorned with pearl beads and flanked by arrow pass protectors on both sides, ensuring comfort and durability for ambidextrous shooting.
On the inner side is painted the Delphic Epsilon—an ancient symbol from Apollo’s temple at Delphi. It signifies divine wisdom, initiation, and the quintessence, often interpreted as “You Are” (Εἶ), linking mortal self-awareness to eternal being. Traditionally crafted in wood, bronze, or gold, it embodies the unity of the five elements and the harmony of masculine and feminine forces.
* Strung with a waxed polyester Flemish twist string

Price: €930.00

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Condition: New

Number available: 1

Traditional

Universal

Greece

20/02/2026

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