SOLD Authentic Antique 16th century Renaissance period superb Quality European battle axe, almost certainly from Northern Italy, possible Florence or Milanese workmanship.

Details: A large sturdy very well hand forged high carbon steel axe head of classical form with an oval central block with large oval eye especially for attaching a strong massive wood haft which can hold the impact of the strike, large crescent form blade triangular in cross section, with sharp cutting edge which all of this makes it much more effective in transmitting force against a hard target, and down-curved tapering beak-shaped rear-fluke of diamond cross-section, which could punch a hole through plate armour. The blade of the axe is pierced with an elaborate shaped panel for adornment and to reduce the weight so that the blade is lighter and better-balanced. This type of pierced work can be seen on the 16th -17th century axes and halberds heads.

The high carbon steel is visible in several places with lamination in the steel forge layered structure.

The axe head is hand forged from high carbon steel. If you tap on the blades with something they will sing like a tuning fork. In fact, they ring for quite a long time with a bright clear tone.

CONDITION: Showing age and usage. In Excellent condition for an antique combat axe that is over 500 years old.

Since the axe is hand forged from high carbon steel which have better corrosion resistance than lower quality steel or iron. Slightly pitted by the surface rust which was professionally removed. Forge layered structure visible in several areas and file traces left from hand finishing the surface after the forging.

MEASUREMENTS

Overall length of the head: 30 cm (11.81 inches)
Height of the blade: 16 cm (6.3 inches)
Dimensions of the oval eye for haft: 5 cm x 1.5 cm (1.97 inches x 0.59 inches)
Weight: 903 grams (1.99 pounds)