From near Lerwick, Shetland
000-100-032-869-C
© National Museums Scotland |
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Axeheads
These two stone axeheads, of mottled porphyrite, were found in a moss near Lerwick in Shetland. They were probably deliberately buried as offerings to the gods sometime between 3800 and 1800 BC.
The massive axeheads both have perfect, deeply curved cutting edges.
Massive axeheads, far bigger and better than ordinary axeheads, were one form of conspicuous consumption during the early Bronze Age. They were symbols of power and prestige for a long period, probably with religious significance as well.
Record details
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| Online ID: |
000-100-032-869-C |
| Image Rights Holder: |
National Museums Scotland |
| Project: |
0098: National Museums Scotland
Project description | View all records in project |
| Ref: |
National Museums Scotland X.AF 531 |
| Date: |
Between 3800 and 1800 BC
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| Material: |
Porphyrite, mottled; cylindrical pointed butt; perfect, deeply curved cutting edge
Porphyrite, mottled; cylindrical pointed butt; perfect, deeply curved cutting edge
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| Dimensions: |
11.00" x 3.38"
11.44" x 3.75"
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| What: |
Axe
Axe
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| Subject: |
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| Who: |
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| Where: |
Scotland, Shetland, Lerwick
Scotland, Shetland, Lerwick
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| Event: |
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| Description: |
Massive axe head of mottled porphyrite with cylindrical pointed butt and perfect, deeply curved cutting edge, from a moss near Lerwick, Shetland
Massive axe head of mottled porphyrite with cylindrical pointed butt and perfect, deeply curved cutting edge, from a moss near Lerwick, Shetland
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