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Description: | Long slender socketed axe of 'hybrid' three-rib type, which may be associated generally with the South Wales/Stougursey tradition. This axe is, however different to the latter type in a number of ways. Firstly, it does not display a four runner casting technology, instead, the excess molten bronze has projected above the mould all of the way around the mouth. Secondly, the loop extends from the underside of the mouth moulding, rather than from within it. Finally, the axe has concave rather than straight sides, giving it a slender curved shape. The axe does however have three moulded ribs extending down each face in common with the South Wales/Stogursey tradition. The external mouth shape and internal socket shape are both sub-rectangular. This axe is very finely made, with pronounced and well-defined ribs and casting flashes which have been filed. A series of short notches on the external mouth moulding probably also represent file marks. Towards the blade end of both faces hammer marks are visible, and the surface is generally very well preserved. The heavy weight and blue grey coloured patina of the axe suggest that it may have a high lead composition. Occasional green blotches of corrosion product are found over the blade, indicating the slightly unstable condition of the axe. The soil from the socket of the axe was removed by an archaeological conservator, but produced no evidence for surviving wooden haft fragments. Date: 1020-800 Cal BC (Ewart Park stage). Length 110mm, blade width 48mm, depth of socket 66.5mm, internal socket dimensions 32.5mm x 28mm, external socket dimensions 45mm x 39.5mm, weight 350.9 grams. | Publisher: | http://finds.org.uk | Source: | Portable Antiquities | Identifier: | http://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/r... | Go to resource |
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