Indian Zaghnal Spiked Axe

An attractive Indian zaghnal axe, typically fitted with a spiked blade like a katar rather than the more conventional curved axe blade. Similar to the European war hammer or pick. This example bears testimony to its use as a weapon of war with its central section of iron running down the centre of the two wooden grips to the end. This would have reinforced the weapon against breaking and cutting in action. The blade is good steel with the tip heavily reinforced, the bode fluted for added rigidity. Near the blade base are two simple animal heads, the reverse with a peen.  The wooden grips are stained and worn from use, some of the decorative brass rivet heads are worn smooth and some missing indicating the long life of this weapon in service.The end of the grip is encased with an iron covering. 18th/19th century. 61 cms long