17th C Executioner’s Axe, Probably German

Description

Featuring a heavy center-hung blade with a 12 3/4” slightly convex cutting edge sharpened on both sides; one surface decorated with floral motif with borders formed by punched dots and semi-circles and deeply stamped with three touch marks depicting an “I” over a “C” in a rectangle. Slightly curved 19” wood handle, possibly the original. Such heavy, short-handled axes were used for executions and the removal of limbs and would not be suitable for woodworking. Markings sharp and clear; shows lamination and forging flaws. Similar axes on display at the Kriminalmuseum in Rothenburg, odT in Germany and at a museum in Scotland used to execute criminals at St. Andrews. A period woodcut shows a similar axe being used to cut off a criminal’s foot. Depth of blade 9 1/2”, overall length 24”.

ON HOLD