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Missouri War Axe

Ca. 1860
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
Small crosses stamped on the forged iron blade of this war axe probably represent a constellation of stars. Parallel lines carved on the brass-tack-decorated haft (handle) are similar to beaded designs on leggings from the region. A pendant of beadwork hangs below the handgrip. French traders introduced this type of war axe to the Plains Indians in the 1700s, and it became a favored weapon for hand-to-hand fighting among tribes along the Missouri River.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Missouri War Axe
  • Date: Ca. 1860
  • Geography: United States, Kansas
  • Culture: Osage
  • Medium: Wood, iron, brass tacks, native-tanned leather, pigment, glass beads, cotton cloth, cordage, porcupine quills
  • Dimensions: Length: 26 1/2 in. (67.3 cm)
    Width: 8 1/4 in. (21 cm)
  • Classification: Metal-Implements
  • Credit Line: National Museum of the American Indian, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C. (007080.000)
  • Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing