While not certain of which Hindu deities are represented in the motif on the faces of the blade on this axe, I am pretty sure that the inscription is in 'devanagari'. This was a script used to publish sacred Sanskrit texts which became popular in British colonial period, while apparantly prior to this there were numerous local script forms. Devanagari served as a prototype and minor variations or additions from regional script types might be applied from what I understand. It is recognized by the distinctive horizontal line at top of characters.
According to "Battle Axes" (James D. Gamble, 1981, p.81) this is an Indian sacrificial temple axe, and an example remarkably similiar is shown with the spike point at top, massive crescent blade of nearly identical shape(12" tip to tip) with brass overlay motif. The pierced holes lining the tangs on either side of the blade are also present.
The same motif with deity figure within a pavilion type enclosure is present, with attendant figures on either side, however in this case, they also are within attached pavilion enclosures as well accenting the central one.
On this axe in this reference, the rear of the head is without features, while Royston's example has extremely interesting features of double pavilions flanking a central spike.
This book is disappointing in not being more specific in identifying the axe shown other than as 'Indian' and as a 'sacrificial' axe noted as associated with (?) but not used in battle. It is stated as being c.1800, which would be difficult to substantiate further.
The ceremonial aspect seems well established, but whether actually a sacrificial weapon or votive ceremonial item is unclear. The head and components seem 19th century, quite possibly earlier,while haft seems to be more recent replacement.
A very impressive piece! whatever the case might be.
All the best,
Jim
Last edited by Jim McDougall; 4th December 2008 at 04:41 AM.
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