NORTH INDIAN SADDLE AXE

NORTH INDIA c. 1800–1850

An unusual axe made for hunting and traveling with a detachable axehead that can be screwed in place with a wing nut. The long hardwood shaft is finished with a bone pommel. The top of the shaft has been reinforced with a steel socket and an easy-attached bolting for the axehead. The head seems to be crucible steel made of Wootz. The upper part of the blade and the wing screw have remains of golden damascened work. The condition is very fine with worn decorations.

• Total length 61 cm