Chinese Axe
Full Description:
An extremely rare silver and gold damascened Chinese axe. Of ancient form, the crescent blade is decorated with two stylized bats flanking a shou symbol and is held in place by a large, gilded dragon’s head, the open mouth exposing the creature’s teeth while the scaled body curls downwards. The iron shaft is cylindrical and decorated with more bats and shou symbols among scrolling clouds, the dark patina providing a contrasting ground. A repeating key fret pattern can be seen on the lower grip section and this continues onto a faceted pommel that provides a stop for the wielder’s hand. The only comparable axe found was sold at Sotheby’s, London, in 2010[1].
[1] http://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/lot.257.html/2010/fine-chinese-ceramics-and-works-of-art-l10211