10th-11th century AD. An iron battle axe with strong curved blade, the socket protected by raised sides; a squared hammer extension to the rear. See D'Amato, R., 'Armi e strumenti di lavoro da Iasos' in Iasos di Caria, Bollettino dell'Associazione, 2017, no.23, pp.2-13, no.9; see also Yotov, V., ???????????? ? ???????????? ?? ??????????? ????????????? (VII-XI ???), (Arms in Bulgaria in medieval period, 7th – 12th century), ?????, 2004. 1.3 kg, 23cm (9"). Property of a London gallery; previously from a private British collection; formerly acquired from a European gentleman; acquired in the 1990s and earlier. This type of axe corresponds to type 2 of the variant 'B' and 'C' of Yotov classification, as regards the axes found in the territory of present-day Bulgaria, although many examples have been found in the Balkans and Anatolia. It is very similar, in particular, to two artefacts found in North-Eastern Bulgaria and to one found in Caria, having a very short and square back (mule) and a large and raised circular socket. The cutting edge is low and has an extended blade on the underside. Condition Report Fair condition.