MIDDLE MINOAN II, CIRCA 2ND MILLENIUM B.C.

This double axe belongs to a common type that appeared in Early Minoan II in many regions of Crete. Although it served a functional purpose, it also represented one of the most important symbols of Minoan religion and ritual, linked with the sacrificing of bulls at religious ceremonies. The shape of the double axe can also be seen throughout Minoan art, carved on buildings and in small votive models found in shrines. The importance of the symbol of the bull to the Minoans is highlighted here by the incision of a bull's head on the central part of each side of this axe. For a Minoan axe of the same type, cf. p. 84, no. 57 in, From the Land of the Labyrinth, Minoan Crete, 3000-1100 B.C., New York, 2008.
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This lot has been imported from outside the EU for sale and placed under the Temporary Admission regime. Import VAT is payable (at 5%) on the hammer price.