Description:

Northern Europe, Denmark, Neolithic period, ca. 3900 to 1700 BCE. A heavy adze, hand-knapped from a mottled light red-brown stone with occasional silvery-grey inclusions. Tools like this one are part of the technology that marked Neolithic life in northwestern Europe, alongside farming, pottery, and longhouses. Adzes of this sort are often found inside dolmens, large granite blocks that form tombs. This example is notable for its thick butt end as well as its edge which is still sharp even after thousands of years. This piece was probably for ceremonial use, considered of great value, and kept apart for display. They were often used as grave goods for important nobles, or given as influential gifts and may have had a role in pagan religious rites. Size: 2.55" W x 8.05" H (6.5 cm x 20.4 cm)

Provenance: ex-G. Windfelder collection, Germany, 1980s

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#153492

  • Condition: Intact, with light deposits and wear commensurate with age including a few tiny chips and nicks.

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March 12, 2020 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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