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Axeheads

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From near Lerwick, Shetland

Axeheads
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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.

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