Jun 5, 2018
Jun 1, 2022
Jun 5, 2018
Jun 1, 2022
Jun 1, 2022
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Axe

Axe

1766–1045 BC

China, Shang dynasty

(c.1600-c.1046 BC)

Bronze

Overall: 23.8 cm (9 3/8 in.)

Edward L. Whittemore Fund 1941.549

Location

Did you know?

A staff or pike would have attached to the blade via the socket below the owl's head.

Description

The head of an owl with large eyes and ears, sitting above the blade of a halberd-axe, may have deterred evil and harm from its carrier. Whether such an axe was used in ritual or warfare is not clear.

See also
Department: 
Chinese Art
Type of artwork: 
Metalwork
Medium: 
Bronze

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