Axehead

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This bronze axehead was found at Loch Glashan at Lochgilphead in Argyll. It dates from between 800 and 700 BC.

The socketed axehead has a square socket and loop. It is decorated on each face with two ribs ending in pellets.

Axeheads were symbols of power and prestige for a long period, probably with religious significance as well. They were sometimes buried or deposited in watery places as offerings to the gods.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-082-630-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.DE 128
• Date: Between 800 and 700 BC
  
• Material: Bronze; loop; square socket; two ribs ending in pellets on each face
  Axe, socketed
  
• Dimensions: 0.50" L x 3.1"; 1.20" x 1.20" (socket)
  
• What: Axe, socketed
  
• Subject:
• Who: John McShane (Finder)
  
• Where: Scotland, Argyll, Lochgilphead, Loch Glashan
  
• Event:
• Description: Bronze socketed axe with a loop, square socket and decoration on each face of two ribs ending in pellets, from Loch Glashan, Lochgilphead, Argyll
  
• References:
  • Coles, John M. Scottish late Bronze Age metalwork: typology, distributions and chronology. Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, 93 (1959-1960), pp 16-134, esp. p 67. 
• Translations:
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