EXTRAORDINARY INDIAN BATTLE AXE, 19TH CENTURY

32” overall with massive crescent form bit decorated with brass figures of Krishna flanked by Gopis. Brass umbrellas above and the panels with brass inlaid borders. Rectangular socket with Hindi inscriptions each side, and diamond section fore spike. The back with a four vein spear point flanked by iron pagodas. Wood haft, tapered through its length. The front with an iron band inset to prevent cutting in battle. Floral brass securing rivets and iron butt mount. See Battle Axes, Gamble, p.81 for another example described as an Indian sacrificial temple axe. A real show stopper!