Fig. 15: Ceremonial Axe. Tlingit.
 Last third of the 18th century.
Length of blade: 16.5 cm. 
Length of handle: 11.5 cm. 
Wood, stone, animal fiber, feather quills, leather.

Collected by Estaban Martinez or Alejandro Malaspina, the blade of this axe is made out of green stone and is strapped with leather to a handle carved with a zoomorphic head in characteristic Tlingit style. The curved section of the handle is bound with quillwork. As noted in an 18th century inventory, the eyes of this object are set with copper pupils. This remarkable ceremonial axe formed part of the regalia used in dance rituals and was associated with individuals of great power within the community.