Exceptional 15th-century Gothic military axe in forged iron from Central Europe, authentic testimony to medieval prestige weaponry.
Analysis & expertise
This piece belongs to the Streitbeile family (Germanic war axes), instruments of both combat and prestige carried by knights and mounted guards. The typology corresponds to examples referenced by Christie's and major museum institutions.
Convex cutting blade finely pierced with a trefoil motif (slipped trefoil), visual signature of Germanic Gothic metallurgy expressing theological and chivalric symbolism.
Stamped rosette punch mark, workshop mark guaranteeing metallurgical quality and geographical origin, signature of master blacksmiths from Augsburg, Passau or Innsbruck guilds.
Flan and edge
Burnished and stable surface, protected by an ancient brown-black oxidation patina attesting to remarkable preservation.
Characteristics
Dimensions: 15.2 × 13.2 × 2.7 cm. Material: forged iron with ancient patina. Exceptional state of preservation with consolidated surface and homogeneous patina.
Historical context
Germanic Gothic axes of the 15th century stood between weapon of war and instrument of chivalric display. Their light profile allowed rapid handling on horseback, during the period of perfecting late medieval weapons.
Cultural value
Complete testimony to the Germanic Gothic armorer tradition, work of metallurgical engineering balancing power, symbolism and aesthetic finesse.
Traceability & guarantees
Documented provenance, certificate of authenticity provided by Galerie Antikarts. Comparisons established with collections from the Metropolitan Museum, Art Institute of Chicago and Worcester Art Museum.
