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LOT 0309
Viking Danish Iron Broad Axehead
CIRCA 9TH-11TH CENTURY A.D.
7 1/4 in. (370 grams, 18.5 cm).
Of asymmetrical profile with reinforced curved cutting edge, triangular-section socket with flanking spurs to upper and lower edges.
ProvenanceFrom the private collection of a London gentleman, from his grandfather's collection formed before the early 1970s.
PublishedExhibited at Harwich Museum, Harwich, Essex, UK, 3rd February-9th March 2024; accompanied by a copy of a photograph of the artefact on display.
LiteratureCf. Arbman, H., Birka I: Die Gräber, Uppsala, 1940, pl.14(5); Hjardar K. and Vike, V., Vikings at War, Oxford, 2016, p.162, for a similar specimen from Troms, dated 1000-1050 A.D.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
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With fish-shaped blade of piled iron construction with square shoulder and flat-section tang; incised triskele motif to one face, each arm terminating in a bird's head with curved beak and lentoid eye; accompanied by a custom-made display stand. 870 grams total, 67 cm high including stand
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Opening Bid: £90
With prominently curved guard extending out from the ricasso partly framing the hilt, thick midrib extending slightly above the ricasso. 385 grams, 44 cm
Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.
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Piriform body with broad neck, stamped roulettes to the lower body and fronds to the shoulder, domed filler-hole, intended to be filled with explosive liquid and wick, used as a hand grenade. 982 grams, 16 cm
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