German 16thC Axe for comment

[cornelistromp]

Hi There,

today I have received a beautiful and interesting Axe.

I think it has a German origin and was made at the end of the 16th century. (1591)
The snake in the tree- or s- mark I have seen before somewhere, also the pattern on the shaft and inlays looks familiar to me. (I think I have seen it on some 16thC firearm stock?)
The petalled flower which stands for Christianity,but the oriental-looking towers ?
I am more at home in swords who helps me further with this Axe?

thanks.