Central to Northern Europe, Celtic culture, Late Bronze Age, ca. 800 to 500 BCE. A socket axe head cast from leaded bronze with a flared cutting edge. The head has an ovoid opening for a handle, and the opening reveals the interior of the blade is entirely hollow. The hollow socket was a technological innovation, allowing economical use of bronze while still making a strong weapon. A fastening loop is set at the top for securing the blade onto the handle. Weapons like this one were signs of prestige, often buried with their owners in mounded tombs, demonstrating their wealth and fighting prowess even beyond the grave. Size: 3.75" L x 1.5" W (9.5 cm x 3.8 cm)

Provenance: ex-estate of Eldert Bontekoe, Pegasi Numismatics, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA acquired before 2000

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#158934

Surface has been cleaned and polished. Nicks to edges. Interior contains green patina and mineral deposits. Chips around socket, but intact!