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Details

LOT 1046

Viking Age Iron Bearded Axehead

10TH-13TH CENTURY A.D.

6 3/4 in. (821 grams, 17 cm).

Finno-Ugrian iron forged 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

Acquired 1971-1972.
From the collection of the vendor's father.
Property of a London, UK, collector.

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 favourite weapons among 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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AUCTIONS:

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LOT 1046

Viking Age Iron Bearded Axehead

Sold for (Inc. bp): £208

Print page

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