Stone Age axehead

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What is it?

During the Neolithic period, people began farming. They used axes to cut down trees to make space to grow crops and keep animals.

This axehead has been polished which made it stronger. When it was first made it would have had a wooden handle.

Did you know that many axeheads like this have been found in the Thames? Archaeologists think they may have been given as gifts to ancient river gods.

What do you think?

• How long do you think this axehead took to polish?
• What animals do you think may have been on a Neolithic farm?
• Why do you think someone might give a gift to the river gods?

Further info

Object ID number: 85.530/1

If you use this image, please credit it as follows:
Digital image copyright Museum of London