Eastern Europe, Balkans region, Danube River Valley, Chalcolithic era, ca. 4700 to 4000 BCE. A rare Chalcolithic copper axe with a socketed hafting slot, from a time period that represents the earliest use of metal in human history! Dating back to around 5000 BCE the Chalcolithic (Copper Age), is the first documented instances of military conflict with metal weapons. This axe is one of only two known war axes from the Balkan Chalcolithic era, designed explicitly for combat and featuring a U-shaped rear socket with raised shoulders. Remarkably, it exhibits intentional damage, suggesting a ritualistic practice of "sacrificing" weapons to the gods, a tradition later observed in the Bronze Age. The rarity of Chalcolithic artifacts, combined with the exquisite craftsmanship of this axe, makes it a valuable addition to collections of early human weaponry, predating even the advent of bronze weapons! Size: 3.75" L (9.5 cm)

Please note that this piece is a dropship item, meaning that it will be shipping from the consignor's location. All information regarding condition, size, stone identification, and metal content have been provided by the consignor.

Provenance: ex-private German and New York collection, from the 1960s

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#184148

No repairs or restoration. Intact and great condition!