Crescentic Axe
Dateabout 2000–1750 BCE
Mediumbronze
Dimensions40.3 × 6.7 cm (15 7/8 × 2 5/8 in.), 14 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.611
DescriptionBronze & crescent-shaped, with projections at back designed to slip into a slotted shaft. Back edges of blade project for lashing to shaft, with 4 lace holes at each projection. Upturned at both ends, presumably to dissipate pressure on the slot of the haft and prevent splitting of the wood. Blade thickens toward pole & back edges, with lips on the internal arcs..Label TextThe Egyptians were relatively slow to adopt bronze. This is a very early example, designed to be tied to a short wooden shaft in the manner of earlier Stone Age weapons. ProvenanceN.Y. Private Collector (according to P-B catalogue). Purchased from Parke-Bernet, N.Y., Sale 1136, Lot 117 (p. 19), March 9, 1950. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
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