Casgliadau Arlein

Complete small three ribbed socketed axe. High placed loop extends from prominent wide outsplayed mouth moulding (11.6mm wide). Three near parallel longitudinal ribs extend from mouth moulding down each face. Mouth shape is sub-rectangular both internally and externally. Four negative runner scars visible on mouth top. Sides of axe are nearly straight, with slight widening near blade. Rectangular body section and angled side edges. No recurving of blade sides visible. The outer mould pieces were slightly mismatched during this casting as evidenced by offset casting joins. On lower face is casting imperfection: two small holes (2.0mm diameter). The loop remains untrimmed, the hole being much diminished is size, whilst the casting flashes are prominent but blunted. Striations parallel to blade edge indicate preparation for use. Cutting edge blunted and damaged by recent knocks and corrosion. Blade has shallow convex edge with no recurving of sides. Patina green to green-brown in colour, with dark green patination on upper faces and mouth.