Jade axe

[Jade axe]

Jade axe is a Neolithic Hanshan culture, 23.7 cm long and 8.7 cm wide
This jade axe material is bluish gray and has many natural textures, forming dark flowers. The axe is a long strip, slightly flat, with a convex arc at the edge, a slightly narrow top and a round hole near the top
This jade axe was unearthed in 1987 at the M4 tomb of the Neolithic cemetery in Lingjiatan, Hanshan County, Anhui Province. There are a large number of funerary jade articles in the tombs, including many high-quality products, such as jade spoons, jade tortoiseshells, jade carving plates, and a large number of jade axes. It can be inferred that the owner of the tomb is a prominent figure, and the jade axe buried not only symbolizes power, but also indicates wealth. This jade axe is the most exquisite among the funerary jade axes. The edge of the axe is sharp, with a certain thickness and weight, and is practical. Although the jade material has changed in color due to the long burial time, it still has its gorgeous nature. The surface of the axe is smooth, finely polished, and the top is slightly rough. It can be seen that the top was originally embedded in the wooden handle, so it was not polished. This work shows the transformation of the jade axe from a practical tool to a ceremonial tool.