Pre-Columbian, Mexico City region, Aztec (Mexica), ca. 1300 to 1500 CE. A fine collection of 5 copper axe heads of several shapes. The 2 widest have a straight spine and a blade edge that curves slightly along the bottom. The blade with a heavy green patina and mineral deposits has a tapering butt and a head that ends in a broad curve with flared tips. In Aztec culture metal and stone heads were sometimes known as a "tepoztli," the blade component of a "tlaximaltepoztli"- an axe for utilitarian and ceremonial use. The last 2 blades have signs of use with a nicks and abrasions along both blade and butt. Larger axes were used in battle, while ones of these sizes were used as currency or ceremonially. Size of longest: 5.25" L x 1.65" W (13.3 cm x 4.2 cm)

Provenance: private Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA collection; ex-Dr. David Harner collection, Springdale, Arkansas, USA, acquired between the 1950s and 1960s

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#167574

Losses to butt end of one blade as shown. Surface abrasions and nicks to other blade as expected with age and use. Blade with flared tip has a heavy, weathered surface with mineral deposits and encrustations. Green and russet patina on all blades.