Lot 89
Near East / Central Asia, Iraq & Afghanistan, ca. 18th to 19th century CE. An incredibly rare and beautiful tool known as a sugar axe, cast from bronze with some remains of the iron blade embedded in the head. The slender handle is etched and drilled - the cavities likely once held glass or stone inlays- with geometric motifs and a relief stag projecting over the head - the curved tip is slotted for inserting the blade. Sugar axes were used to break up and pulverize sugar loaves into powder, this sweet "nectar of the gods" was introduced to the region about 1500 years ago, spreading from Southeast Asia into India then central Asia. The incised motifs are celestial; crescent moons and stars - perhaps a heavenly connection to ancient deities, and stags were associated with the sacred Tree of Life! Size: 11" L x 4.75" W (27.9 cm x 12.1 cm)
The ritualistic axes known as "qandshekan" were treasured heirlooms that were passed down through generations, but due to modernization of sugar production - they have become very scarce and nearly obsolete! Ceremonial sugar axes, such as this, were cast from bronze or copper with ornate designs and often given as wedding gifts, while utilitarian everyday axes were simpler and usually made entirely of iron or steel. Breaking sugar loaves with an axe such as this was a ceremonial part of marriage rituals, and the sugar pieces were distributed to guests like wedding cake in Western traditions!
Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010
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#175747
- Condition: Missing iron blade tip. Age and use commensurate surface wear and nicks, but rest of bronze handle and head are intact and excellent. Surface is cleaned and coated in clear fixative. Missing inlays along handle and head. Green patina and dark toning throughout.
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