The Cleveland Museum of Art
Collection Online as of May 4, 2024
Ceremonial Axe
before 1916
Overall: 26.7 cm (10 1/2 in.); Handle: 43.2 cm (17 in.)
Gift of J. H. Wade 1916.739
Location: not on view
Description
Songye artists working in various metals produced a variety of ornamental objects, like this one used as an insignia of high office. Each column supporting the blade was decorated with a face, then forged, and twisted individually before being welded in place to create an intricate openwork design. The wooden handle is completely covered in copper, a precious metal reserved for rulers.- {{cite web|title=Ceremonial Axe|url=false|author=|year=before 1916|access-date=04 May 2024|publisher=Cleveland Museum of Art}}
Source URL:
https://www.clevelandart.org/art/1916.739