Early Iroquois Grave Axe, ca. 1700

Description

This grave axe is from the collection of famed collector and author Robert Wheeler, with his
painted label reading: “GRAVE AXE/IROQUOIS/N.Y.S.-1700’s”. This early axe was used
as a fighting war axe among the eastern Iroquois tribes Among the Iroquois culture the
large size axes were used by the women of the tribes to set up shelters, butcher game, and
do the domestic chores. The smaller size axes were lighter and more suited to deliver a
fast deadly blow on raids. Native Americans believed in life after death and the men were
buried with their tomahawks, war axes, knives, etc., believing it would all be of use in the
next life. This heavy forged axe head was found in New York State many years ago. It is 6
3/4″ long, with a 3 1/8″ convex cutting edge and elliptical eye; weight 2 pounds 1 oz. It
bears a Jesuit touch mark, as these axes were trade goods used to establish good relations
with the native tribes and spread Christianity. Items such as this are among the earliest of
all European trade goods used in the New World. Excavated, showing deep pitting and
dark patina. A rare example of a fighting axe from a famous collection.