MINER'S AXE

Saxon, beginning of the 18th century.
Elongated trapezoidal blade with a pointed extension, and piercings. Canted socket, with small 'hammer extension'. Brown wooden shaft with engraved bone and horn inlays, decoration: on top - depiction of the Crucifixion with praying miners, eight medallions depicting miners as blacksmiths and pursuing other activities. The bone end-piece of the shaft is engraved with the coats-of-arms of Saxony and Meissen, miners' coats-of-arms, and ornaments.
L 83 cm.

A rare "ceremonial axe" used by Saxon miners.