Description:

Ancient Egypt, Middle Kingdom, 11th to 13th Dynasty, near modern-day Aswan, Kubbaniya North, Nubian culture, ca. 2130 to 1649 BCE. A striking pair of axe heads from Ancient Egypt: one made from bronze and the other from copper. First, the larger is made from copper and presents a semicircular blade, a straight spine, and 3 perforations between a pair of hooked flanges. The well-preserved weapon is incised on one side with the image of 2 birds, a horse, and a person, while the other side is carved with a cartouche containing an E-shaped character. The incising seems to have been done later, perhaps even in modern times. Alternatively, the more petite axe head is forged from copper and exhibits a dramatically curved blade that slants slightly inward before extending to 2 straight flanges. A pair of annular suspension holes are featured on the spine. Size of larger (incised axe head): 4.1" L x 2.8" W (10.4 cm x 7.1 cm)

Provenance: private Everett, Massachusetts, USA collection; (etched axe head): ex-Ancient Resource Auctions, Montrose, California, USA, October 6, 2018, lot 61; ex-private Southern California, USA collection / (more petite axe head): acquired from Artemis Gallery, Louisville, Colorado, USA, September 27, 2016, lot 255; ex-estate of John Piscopo. Mr. Piscopo was one of the largest collectors of ancient weapons in the US with a collection that spanned all cultures, all ages.

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#183196

  • Condition: Incised decoration has been added more recently, possibly in modern times. Both have expected nicks, abrasions, and softening to blades. Otherwise, both are intact and excellent with rich patina throughout.

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February 1, 2024 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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