African Shona and Christmas Tree Axes ?

drac2k · 1st May 2020, 06:52 PM

I just purchased these 2 axes; I believe one to be a Shona ax. It measures approx. 20" long and the blade, as many of these, are made from an old European food chopper that is 3.5" x 6 inches.
The other ax is very substantial with a large heavy blade that measures 13.5" x 3.25"(the actual crescent part of the blade). It would be for cleaving and strangely enough, judging by its balance, possibly for throwing, as both the inner and outer edges are sharp.
I can not find another one exactly like it, but what is driving me crazy is the paint job that makes it look like a Christmas Tree Ornament! Was it decorated that way for a wedding, a funeral, or an initiation ceremony or did some dummy think it was a good idea before he passed out drunk? I am unable to find a similarly painted ax; has anyone else?

1st May 2020, 06:52 PM	#1
drac2k Member Join Date: Jun 2013 Posts: 1,184	African Shona and Christmas Tree Axes ? I just purchased these 2 axes; I believe one to be a Shona ax. It measures approx. 20" long and the blade, as many of these, are made from an old European food chopper that is 3.5" x 6 inches. The other ax is very substantial with a large heavy blade that measures 13.5" x 3.25"(the actual crescent part of the blade). It would be for cleaving and strangely enough, judging by its balance, possibly for throwing, as both the inner and outer edges are sharp. I can not find another one exactly like it, but what is driving me crazy is the paint job that makes it look like a Christmas Tree Ornament! Was it decorated that way for a wedding, a funeral, or an initiation ceremony or did some dummy think it was a good idea before he passed out drunk? I am unable to find a similarly painted ax; has anyone else? Attached Images