New Guinea Jade Axes

[Tim Simmons]

Axe forms vary from one area to another, PNG is a big island. From your pictures your blades look more like adze type of blade. Stone blade and axes have many functions practical, ceremonial and currency/wealth again the form depends on the region. A huge task to gather all knowledge on the subject. These are the axes I have. I consider myself very lucky to have the Asmat ceremonial axe with the head hunting figurative handle. The stone is beautifully mottled. The so called tree felling axe, which could be used as a weapon, is a form found among the Dani in the western highlands. The other axes are from the eastern and southern highlands. The one with the thick blade is a fighting axe but they are also used as forms of payment.