Valdivian Stone Axe Head

Pre-Columbian, Ecuador, Valdivia culture, ca. 3500 to 1800 BCE. A very fine stone celt or axe head that is comprised of a straight handle side and slightly flared corners with a convex body that tapers to a rounded cutting edge. The stone is a smooth, dark-gray color tinged with a hint of green. This celt was formed by pecking and grinding until smooth. The lateral projections on the handle's edge may have made this blade head easier to attached to a wooden pole or handle. Size: 5.25" L x 5" W (13.3 cm x 12.7 cm)

Hand axes of this form have been found as part of the Kotosh Religious tradition, a name that archaeologists have given to ritual buildings built between 3000 and 1500 BCE in the mountain drainages of the Andes. Celts like this one, although shaped like a utilitarian tool, were made specifically for ritual purposes and were often buried with people of importance.

Provenance: private southwestern Pennsylvania, USA collection, acquired prior to 2000

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#160247
Condition Report: Minor abrasions and nicks noticeably scattered throughout the stone. Chipping is most prominent on the axe's bladed end commensurate with use. Overall condition is good as blade is intact with predominantly smooth surface.