Axe head

Add to album

This iron axehead was found at the site of the native hillfort of Traprain Law in East Lothian. It was used sometime between 0 and 400 AD, probably for felling trees or heavy carpentry.

Iron axe from Traprain Law

Bringing land into cultivation was a strenuous progress, done by people alone or with the help of working animals. First the ground needed to be cleared, with trees felled and vegetation removed. Only then could the soil begin to be prepared for crops.

Record details

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

• Online ID: 000-100-040-038-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.GVM 474
• Date: Between 0 and 400 AD
  
• Material: Iron; hole for haft; the blade expands towards the cutting edge, the under side having a downward curve
  Axe
  
• Dimensions: 4.25" L x 1.19" B at hole x 1.81" at face
  
• What: Axe
  
• Subject:
• Who:
• Where: Scotland, East Lothian, Traprain Law
  
• Event:
• Description:
• References:
  • Burley, Elizabeth. Metal-work from Traprain Law. Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland 89 (1955-1956), 118-226, esp. no. 474, p 211. 
• Translations:
• Related Records: