NORTH EUROPEAN (GERMANIC) EXECUTIONER’S AXE C.1600

Well forged iron bit with concave front, haunched back and curved cutting edge. Tapered back transitioning to the hexagonal section socket. Dark hard wood haft with good glossy patina.  41” total length with 9 ¼” deep bit. Large proportions and heavy weight which allowed the axe to gain sufficient inertia for the cut with minimal downward force, thus maximizing control for accuracy. Virtually every town in Europe was equipped with such an axe in the 15th-17th century after which the sword was utilized, though the axe was still reserved for nobility. Evidently, the severed head remains alive for a short while and at least one record exists of a man calling to the victim who rolled his eyes to meet those of the caller. Speech would be impossible as it requires a functioning respiratory system.