BEARDED AXE.

Bearded axes are most commonly associated with the Vikings, and have been recorded as early as the 6th century. Their distinct "beard" is formed by removing metal from behind the cutting edge, lowering the overall weight of the weapon, and allowing for additional uses such as hooking an opponent's shield and pulling it out of position. This example has a 7" cutting edge with a tapered socket for shaft and a touchmark resembling an "E" near shaft. Haft is slightly curved and has a flat area along spine just behind socket. CONDITION: Axe is in excavated condition with with heavy pitting throughout that has formed a rich chocolate patina. Deterioration is visible in several areas, with one small hole in the axe head that goes completely through, and missing several pieces around socket. Shaft, of a more recent vintage than the axe, with some grain separations and chips throughout; one set of chips and cuts along the spine looks as though it might have been intentional as part of a design. This is a very attractive example of one of the most utilitarian axe designs. EMW Blade Length: 7" Overall Length: 25"