A fine ancient Bactrian socketed bronze axe head, featuring a fan-shaped blade and a wing-shaped detail to the rear. The edge of the blade is decorated with a ridged band. The axe is further embellished with an eye relief on each side of the socket. The apotropaic detail points to the axe having a ceremonial importance. Patination to the surface. Blade and wing-shaped rear bent due to age. Interior of the socket blocked by encrustations. Bactria or (Bactriana) was the name of a historical region in central Asia. Several important trade routes from India and China passed through Bactria from the Bronze Age onwards, which allowed for the accumulation of vast wealth by the predominantly nomadic population. Measurements: L 16.5cm x H 7.5cm Provenance: Ex London Collection, formed between 1990-present.