Antique Indian Zaghnal axe

A nice Antique Indian Axe known as a Zaghal or crowbeak axe. Unlike the standard axe with a crescentic cutting edge, these weapons had a sharp point with reinforced tip in which to punch through armour, helmets or clothing. They are related to the warhammers or war picks used in European warfare and also used by the Poles and Turks. This example has a steel head with a much thickened tip, the side opposite to the pick has a small crescentic blade although this is not sharp. The steel is chisel worked with animals-elephants and horses, leaves and foliage, and is all in very good condition with no pitting. The axe retains its original wooden shaft, lacquered completely in purple and gold. This weapon is antique and dates to the late 19th century.