Battle axehead

This stone battle axehead dates from around 2200 to 2000 BC. Its findspot is not known. Although battle axes could have been used as weapons, like recent Native American clubs, they were principally symbols of power, indicating high status.

This battle axehead has a blade, a rounded butt, and a shafthole positioned towards the butt end. The top and bottom surfaces of the battle axehead are parallel. The stone head would have been fixed onto the top of an organic handle by means of its shafthole.

Battle axes were adapted from Continental Europe around the time when metallurgy was introduced to Scotland. They were originally mounted on handles. Although they could have functioned as weapons, their main purpose was to be symbols of power.

Record details

To search on related items, click any linked text below.