MAGNIFICENT AND RARE GERMANIC CORPORATE PROCESSION AXE, DATE - Lot 49

MAGNIFICENT AND RARE GERMANIC CORPORATE PROCESSION AXE, DATED 1686 - Known as the "bleaching axe". It symbolizes the "CHARPENTIERS DE LA MINE" - on a pearwood handle, dozens of decorative elements in engraved bone are inlaid: Christ on the cross, figures at prayer; in bust form and on their feet (lay people). A tille is crossed on a pickaxe framing the date. Many other floral and vegetal decorations are present, numerous and varied - The handle tail is in the shape of a boot entirely lined with engraved bone - The axe is cut out and pierced with circles and a central three-lobed "nail" - The point is embellished with a riveted hardwood ball (probably plum). The "MK" stamp is present. Length: 92 cm. Width : 24 cm. Minor maintenance.