Heavy horseman's axe with gold inlaid faces engraved with scrolling and calligraphic script, blunt rear hammer style head, engraved to the shaft mount with avian scene. Circa 16th to 17th century Ottoman Empire. Size overall 41" L, blade 9 1/2" L.

The calligraphy translates to: (The Shahada, the Muslim declaration of belief in the oneness of God and acceptance of Muhammad as his prophet) either (There is no god but God, Muhammad is the Messenger of God)

(Al Fath) (The Victory) surate 48 verse either; (Verily We have granted thee a manifest Victory)

An identical form is found in the Royal Ontario Museum as well as the Askeri Muzesi in Istanbul where they are cataloged as 16th C. Ottoman axes.

Heavy Horseman's axe could be used to hack through armor, shields, and opponents. Cavalry units, including elite Ottoman Janissaries and other mounted warriors, also made use of these axes due to their maneuverability and ability to deliver devastating blows from horseback.

private - International Arms Collector

Loss to inlay, dents to hammer head, scratches to axe face, and wear throughout. Shaft added later and not original to the piece.