Axehead

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This bronze axehead was found at Glenforsa on Mull in the Inner Hebrides. It dates from between 2250 and 1900 BC.

The flat axehead is the most common form in the Early Bronze Age. As with most flat axeheads, it is undecorated. However, it may have been tinned to give it a shiny appearance.

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: 000-190-004-228-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.DA 70
• Date: Between 2250 and 1900 BC
  
• Material: Bronze, probably tinned; plain
  Axe, flat
  
• Dimensions: 5.63" x 3.13" across cutting edge
  
• What: Axe, flat
  
• Subject:
• Who: Duns Collection
  
• Where: Scotland, Argyll, Mull, Glenforsa
  
• Event:
• Description: Bronze flat axe, probably tinned, from Glenforsa, Mull
  
• References:
  • Coles, John M. Scottish Early Bronze Age metalwork. Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, 101 (1968-9), 1-110, esp. pp 15-26, 80, 105. 
• Translations:
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