German Horsemans axe of 16th century?

[midelburgo]

Is there something written?

[kronckew]

Reminds me of an Imperial German (Prussian) Fire service presentation or parade axe, as below, but older, maybe another German state or another European nation further east. European fire axes tended to be smaller, hatchet size, than American ones. I can't make out the marking on the side languet, can you post a better macro photo of any markings. Other German guilds (like miners) used fancy parade axes, and very uniquely headed ones too. Polish Nobles liked small headed (but longer) axes, most as rank symbology, such as my Obuzek also below with a heavy spike opposite the axe head end.

Yours Looks too fancy and short for a weapon or a boarding axe, more a status item. Still wouldn't like being hit with it.

Dimensions and weight would help...

[M ELEY]

Yeah, this one throws me a bit. If the construction were slightly different, I might suggest a 'Halberd-style' tomahawk ax from the trade period. Believe me, there are some real odd ones out there that many would assume were fantasy pieces but in fact real. The thing is, the langet on the end of the haft, the cut-out to the bottom of the blade that Wayne has succinctly shown resembles Euro dress fire axes, the grip resembling a military type battle axe, makes me wonder. Just not so sure on this one!