11th-13th century AD. An Eastern Baltic iron axehead with triangular-section blade widening to a broad bevelled edge, socket with flange to the rear. Cf. Sedov, B.B., Finno-Ugri i Balti v Epokhi Srednevekovija, Moscow, 1987, pl.XC, item 27. 723 grams, 18cm (7"). Property of a London binessman, from his grandfather's collection formed after World War II; thence by descent 1972. During this age, the axes were the favourite weapons of many Baltic people, including the Curonian army which included lightly armed soldiers who fought with spears, shields, fighting knives and axes. A heavily armed soldier could also carry a sword, a helmet, a shield, and a wide-bladed axe. [No Reserve]