9th-11th century AD. An iron axehead with long, deeply curved blade, short neck, socket with triangular wings above and below, long rectangular extension to the rear; mounted on a custom-made stand. Cf. Arbman, H. Birka I: Die Gräber, Uppsala, 1940, pl.14(1) for type. 1.9 kg total, axe: 19cm (7 1/2"). From the family collection of a South East London collector; formerly acquired in the late 1950s. Very fine condition, professionally cleaned and conserved. Rare.