Chinese Bronze Ge Dagger-Axe Head, likely Warring States to Han Dynasty

Story

Over two thousand years ago, massive armies clashed to unite China under a single empire, relying on this exact weapon design. Mounted on long wooden poles, these dagger-axes were swung downward to hook and pierce armored enemies. This blade survived centuries buried in the earth, slowly growing its vibrant green mineral skin.

Maker / Origin

These weapons were cast in state-supervised workshops using complex multi-piece clay molds. Master bronze-smiths of the Warring States and Han eras were highly organized, often stamping or incising weapons with the names of the supervising officials, workshops, or even the individual smiths to ensure strict quality control.

Condition & Value

The bronze shows a genuine, thick, crusty green malachite and reddish cuprite patina consistent with long-term burial. There is minor chipping and loss along the thin edges of the blade and the upper tang, which is typical for excavated weapons of this age. The condition is stable and presents beautifully on its custom museum mount.