Antique Medieval 10th -11th century A.D. Viking Axe Head

Antique medieval 10th - 11th century A.D. Scandinavian Viking axe head. This axe head is well hand-forged from iron and features a large, curved blade with a slightly curved cutting edge. The middle section is decorated with a cut-out openwork panel embellished with a cross and pierced with two holes on the sides. At the center, there is a large shaft-hole with shaped lugs.

These axes, which feature a cross motif, were sturdy enough for practical use, but they were most likely reserved for ceremonial purposes. The owners of these cross axes were not necessarily Christian, but the axes reflect the strong Christian influence that existed during this part of the Viking period.

For similar axe in museum, please see the last picture in the listing and the link below:

https://en.natmus.dk/historical-knowledge/denmark/prehistoric-period-until-1050-ad/the-viking-age/weapons/axes/

CONDITION: Corroded in excavated condition, there is a vertical crack on one side of the poll-bat, which was stabilized by glue.

Since the pictures were taken in the studio lighting, the axe in daylight is darker and not as glitter as the photos.

MEASUREMENTS:

Overall length: 18.5 cm (7,28 inches).

Cutting edge: 17 cm (6.69 inches).

Weight: 560 grams.

PROVENANCE: The previous owner acquired the axe in the 1980s from the most reputable Canadian military antiques dealer of that time.

The buyer will be provided with a Certificate of Authenticity.