1st-4th century AD. An iron axehead with splayed blade, wide oval-shaped socket with flat rear. See Jackson, R., Camerton: The Late Iron Age and Early Roman Metalwork, London, 1990, Cat. 232. 1.4 kg, 21cm (8 1/4"). Property of a London gallery; previously from a private British collection; formerly acquired from a European gentleman; acquired in the 1990s and earlier. The axe is an example of Roman tool work having a drooping triangular blade and a simple squared-off butt. The egg-shaped socket, which is tapered to ensure a close fit on the shaft, was made from a single bar of iron hammered round to form the socket and welded to the blade. The cutting edge has broken away, probably along the weld line. Condition Report Fair condition.