A cast of a Neolithic Danish flint axe found in Jutland, dating to around 5,500 years ago. It measures 8 and 7/8ths inches long, and was broken in ancient times. The original was loaned to Occpaleo from the amazing Peek Collection for molding and casting so that others could share in this treasure from the past. It is an excellent example of a Type 3 Thin Butted Danish Square Axe from the area of central Jutland. It is dated to a time period of the Early Funnel Beaker Culture, in the late Dolmen/Early Passage Grave Phase around 5,300 to 5,500 years ago.
 
This fine piece was highlighted in the journal Chips VOL 19#2, 2007 by flintknapping author DC. Waldorf. The axe had been previously examined by several experts, and after adding his own examination, Waldorf concluded that this axe had been broken during use in Neolithic times, and was disgarded at that time. The report also stated that this axe seemed to be the type that was actually used to fell trees, and not as a ceremonial axe or burial good. Modern experiments show these axes have an ideal length for tree work at around 8 inches, and this example is around 9 inches long. That might have contributed to the bending/compression break it suffered. The bit looks to have been repaired after some dings in the leading edge, and well taken care of after future uses, until the catostrophic break. It is a wonderful example that shows the result of many hours of skilled work.