Socketed Ax-Head (Celt)

Socketed Ax-Head (Celt)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Dating from the Late Bronze Age, this finely preserved socketed bronze axe head exhibits features of form and construction that distinguish a family of axes used in the British Isles. It is of a particular type that captures the refinement of form and decoration that marks the final stage in the development of a class of weapons that was most popular.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Socketed Ax-Head (Celt)Socketed Ax-Head (Celt)Socketed Ax-Head (Celt)Socketed Ax-Head (Celt)Socketed Ax-Head (Celt)

The principal goals of the Arms and Armor Department are to collect, preserve, research, publish, and exhibit distinguished examples representing the art of the armorer, swordsmith, and gunmaker. Arms and armor have been a vital part of virtually all cultures for thousands of years, pivotal not only in conquest and defense, but also in court pageantry and ceremonial events. Throughout time the best armor and weapons have represented the highest artistic and technical capabilities of the society and period in which they were made, forming a unique aspect of both art history and material culture.