A Bronze Age Palstave Axe Head
Discovered near Froxfield, this bronze axe head dates from around 1500-1250 BC, placing it in the Middle to Late Bronze Age. At just under 11cm long, it might seem small, but its story is anything but.
This type of axe head, known as a palstave, represents an early stage in the evolution of metal tools. Crafted with impressive skill, it showcases the ingenuity of Bronze Age metalworkers who were just beginning to unlock the potential of copper alloys.
What Makes This Axe Head Special?
Its design is a work of both function and form. The sides run parallel before flaring out to a crescent-shaped cutting edge, perfect for chopping and carving. Side flanges and a prominent central ridge aren’t just decorative—they’re key to how it was used.
How Was It Used?
Imagine this: a wooden handle, probably made from sturdy ash, with the axe head secured tightly in place. The flanges along the sides helped it sit firmly within a split in the handle, bound tightly with leather thongs or sinew. This clever design made it strong and stable, ideal for chopping wood, crafting objects and even serving as a status symbol.
Why Does It Matter?
Palstaves like this mark a significant leap from early stone tools, showing how Bronze Age communities advanced in technology and craftsmanship. They also give us an insight into daily life, from practical tasks to the ways people expressed power and prestige.
Want to Dig Deeper?
Curious to learn more about Bronze Age tools? Check out the British Museum’s Bronze Age collection or dive into archaeological studies like The Axes of Bronze Age Britain by Schmidt and Burgess.
The find has been recorded by the Portable Antiquities Scheme and full details can be found here.
Click here watch our video for a closer look at the Bronze Age Palstave Axe.