Axehead

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This bronze axehead was found at Kevans at Whithorn in Wigtownshire. It was made sometime between 2300 and 1750 BC.

The flat axehead is flanged upwards on both sides, suggesting that the wooden haft was split. Both sides are decorated with rows of punch marks in the centre. The axehead has also been tinned to give it a silvery appearance. The blade end is corroded.

Axeheads were symbols of power and prestige for a long period, probably with religious significance as well. Tinning was a technique used by the early metalworkers to make axeheads extra special.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-034-242-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.DA 47
• Date: Between 2300 and 1750 BC
  Early Bronze Age
  
• Material: Bronze, tinned; rows of punch marks in centre
  Axe, flat
  
• Dimensions: 4.75" x 2.50"
  
• What: Axe, flat
  
• Subject:
• Who:
• Where: Scotland, Wigtownshire, Whithorn, Kevans
  
• Event:
• Description: Early Bronze Age tinned flat axe with rows of punch marks in centre, from Kevans, Whithorn, Wigtownshire
  
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