Description:

West Africa, Ghana, Ashanti (Asante) people, ca. 19th century CE. A stunning ceremonial axe cast from brass, featuring anthropomorphic and zoomorphic forms! The axe handle forms a birds neck, while the butt of the blade is the bird head with a spiraling eye on each side in relief. The curved blade protrudes from the bird's open beak like a tongue. A male figure is placed along the upper portion of the handle with an elongated lizard or crocodile below his feet. A piercing through the tip of the handle could be used for suspension or additional ornamentation. Such axes, while intimidating with the serrated and curved blade, were ritualistic and carried to demonstrate prestige and wealth of the owner. Size: 11.375" L x 5" W (28.9 cm x 12.7 cm)

Provenance: ex-Ashland University Museum, Ashland, Ohio, USA

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#165492

  • Condition: Chip to tip of handle near suspension piercing. Minor surface nicks, otherwise intact. Rich green patina. Modern metal wires tied to handle for display and suspension.

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July 1, 2021 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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