online Militaria dealer - Antique-Militaria [UK]
magnify icon Search militaria Medals - Arms - Militaria
Home icon Antique Militaria Home Cart icon Cart Checkout icon Checkout about us icon About us for the SEs and the curious Site map Telephone icon Contact us People shaking hands icon Customer comments | Help
Title Double-edged Byzantine fighting axe
Nationality Greek
Period 15th century
Price £2000.00

This extremely rare axe is similar in shape, but much larger in size, to one found on the Kosovo battlefield (1448), photographed in a Serbian catalogue on Kosovo battlefield finds. This type would have been carried by a large person, quite possibly in the Varangian Guard of the emperor of Byzantium.

The Varangian Guard typically consisted of Scandinavians, then, after 1066, Englishmen and, finally, assorted Viking and Russian elements. The small blade is heavily scored - showing extensive use against armour. You would never find scars of this nature on a wood axe.

The large main fighting blade (8 inches) would have been used to bring a horse down and the armour piercing rear blade for dealing with armoured knights. The total length of the axe is 14 inches. It would have been carried on a five foot wooden shaft, much in the manner of a Western pole axe. It weighs about two kilos.

I have never seen one of these before in 35 years of dealing. Truly the mother of all fighting axes! It was found in Bulgaria and, from the patina, I would presume that, rather being than a ground find, it has been lovingly preserved in someone's house or possibly barn.

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.


[Edged Weapons : Polearms : Greek : 15th Century]

testimonials

Many thanks for sending the Troddels to me. I was very pleased that they were in the fine condition that you described.

J G, UK, 24.05.2010

I received the silver Verdienstkreuz this morning. Your swiftness and dedication was very much appreciated and, though the envelope arrived with a Post Office sticker saying it had been found open or damaged, the cross was unharmed and looks beautiful. Thanks for your time.

E C, UK, 18.10.2005

more...