Han Dynasty Bronze Dagger-Axe (ge), China

Description

The Chinese ge is a dagger-axe first developed in the Shang dynasty and used through the Han dynasty, the first unified Chinese empire when military weapons, especially ge were produced in vast numbers and used prolifically. After the the introduction of chariots and tightly packed military formations, its use virtually disappeared. The earliest dagger-axes were made of stone; later ones were bronze; and even later versions were jade and precious materials for ceremonial purposes. In general, dagger-axes have been found without a shaft as they decomposed or were removed. Ceremonial jade daggers were sometimes found in the tombs of Chinese nobles and the wealthy and often within their coffins suggesting they were symbols of power, high status, with ritual significance. Others were found below the coffin possessed by servants or victim sacrificed to guard the tomb, the deceased, and  their soul safe in the afterlife. This axe comes with a special case. This piece is a true glimpse of the changes in military history and would be a great addition to a collection of weapons throughout the ages.