Viking Age Finno-Ugrian Socketted Axe Head

10TH-13TH CENTURY A.D.

5 5/8 in. (694 grams, 14.2 cm).

A Finno-Ugrian or Baltic hand-forged iron axehead with triangular-section narrow blade widening to a broad bevelled edge with square chin and spur to the rear, socket with flanges to the rear. [No Reserve]

Provenance

From the private collection of a London gentleman, from his grandfather's collection formed before the early 1970s.

Literature

Cf. for similar axes Nicolle, D., 'Raiders of the Ice War' in Military Illustrated, March 1996, no.94, pp.26-29, fig.p.28; Sedov, B.B., Finno-Ugri i Balti v Epokhi Srednevekovija, Moscow, 1987, pl.CX, item 44.

Footnotes

During the mid 13th century, the axes were favourited by Baltic people. For instance, the Curonian army included lightly armed soldiers who fought with spears, shields, fighting knives and axes. A heavily armed soldier could also carry a sword, a helmet, a shield and a wide bladed axe.

CONDITION

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LOT 1734