Record

Axehead

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from near Perth, Perthshire

Postcard of Axehead.
000-100-034-290-C
© National Museums Scotland

Axehead

This bronze axehead was found near Perth in Perthshire. It was probably used as a charm. The axehead dates from around 2050 to 1850 BC.

The edges of the axehead have been hammered to create slight flanges which have been decorated with rope mouldings. One face is also decorated with lines of punched dots. The axehead has a stop-ridge which prevented the haft from slipping down the tool.

Axeheads were symbols of power and prestige for a long period, probably with religious significance as well. Some axeheads are elaborately decorated, suggesting that they had symbolic rather than everyday functions.


Record details

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Online ID: 000-100-034-290-C
Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
Project: 0098: National Museums Scotland
Project description | View all records in project
Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.DC 76
Date: Between 2050 and 1850 BC
Material: Bronze; with slight flanges and stop ridge, the flanges ornamented with rope moulding and one face with lines of punctures, formerly used as a charm
Dimensions: 4.25 x 2.25"
What: Axe, flanged
Subject:
Who:
Where: Scotland, Perthshire, Perth
Event:
Description: Axe, flanged
References:
  • Coles, John M. Scottish Early Bronze Age metalwork. Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, 101 (1968-9), 1-110, esp. pp 15, 85. 
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