Small socketed axeheads from northern Britain
some finds ‘of more than ordinary interest’
Keywords:
axeheads, Bronze Age, Iron Age, miniature, diminutive, socketed, metalwork, functionality
axeheads, Bronze Age, Iron Age, miniature, diminutive, socketed, metalwork, functionality
Period(s):
Bronze Age, Roman Age, Iron Age
Bronze Age, Roman Age, Iron Age
Abstract
In 2019 a miniature bronze socketed axehead was discovered near Morebattle, Scottish Borders. As such artefacts are rare finds in northern Britain, the opportunity has been taken to draw together the range of unusually small socketed axeheads recorded from Scotland and northern England, and to discuss them in their wider British context. For the first time, scientific techniques are applied to these objects, including optical microscopy, X-ray fluorescence analysis and computed X-radiography, to inform discussions of wear analysis, material composition, manufacture and chronology. The paper concludes with a discussion of the function and meaning of small socketed axeheads and their changing role over time.
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Published
30-11-2023
How to Cite
Paul, E. B., Knight, M. G., Cowie, T. G., & Troalen, L. (2023). Small socketed axeheads from northern Britain: some finds ‘of more than ordinary interest’. Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, 152, 53–82. https://doi.org/10.9750/PSAS.152.1356
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