A copper-alloy axehead with an elongated, narrow septum (hafting slot) with distinct, raised lateral flanges along the sides designed to hold a split wooden handle firmly in place. The blade flares out dramatically into a wide, prominent crescentic shape with curved, tips. Very nice example from this early period. Written on the septum is the area where found, North Humberside.
 
Early to Middle British Bronze Age (MBI Period): Circa 1950 - 1750 BC.
 
Superb condition, complete and intact dark, mottled greyish-brown patina with slight golden-bronze highlights showing through the worn high-points.
Length 9.9 cms (3.9 ins). Weight 215 grams
 
Provenance: Ex Martin Doyle collection 1980's, Leverstock UK.
 
See similar at the London Museum object A4889
 
See also Cf. Evans, J., The Ancient Bronze Implements, Weapons and Ornaments of Great Britain and Ireland, London, 1881, item 12.
 
While transitioning toward true palstaves, which feature a heavy, definitive 'stop-ridge' across the middle, this specific form represents a 'developed flanged axe'. The high flanges and wide, splayed cutting edge is classic for British developed flat axes and early palstaves and place it cleanly alongside early British metalwork horizons, such as the famous Arreton Down metalwork tradition of southern and eastern England.
 
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