**Originally Listed At $300**

Pre-Columbian, Mexico City region, Aztec, ca. 1300 to 1500 CE. A fine collection of copper axe heads used as utilitarian tools and as a form of currency. The 3 thicker blades are known as "tepoztli", the metal component of a "tlaximaltepoztli" - an axe for utilitarian and ceremonial use. The blades are a similar, adze or axe form- with a lengthy body, thick tang, and flared cutting edge. These blades show signs of use - especially on the blade of the largest and smallest - evident surface wear from pounding and cutting. Adze blades like these were bound to the tops of wooden handles and used to till earth, chop wood, or shape soft substances like tree bark or mud bricks. The long and narrow blade is thinner than the others and was likely a type of currency known as a "tajadero." Remains of woven textile fibers are scattered across the face indicating this piece may have been buried in a bundle. Size (largest blade): 7" L x 3" W (17.8 cm x 7.6 cm); (smallest blade): 5.35" L x 2.5" W (13.6 cm x 6.4 cm)

Provenance: private Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA collection; ex-Dr. David Harner collection, Springdale, Arkansas, USA, acquired between the 1950s and 1960s

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

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Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#167575

Small losses and chips to the blade edge of the smallest and largest blade. The other 2 blades are intact and very good. Russet and green patina on all, with remains of textile fibers on the thinnest blade.