Two Early Bronze Age axeheads dating from around 2150-2000 BC have been anonymously donated to the National Museum of Ireland, who are now appealing to the public for information.
The artefacts, which were sent to the museum at the end of June, came with a letter saying that they were discovered in the Westmeath area using a metal detector. The sender wished for the Museum to conserve the axeheads, but did not include any contact details or further specifics.
“The axeheads were thoughtfully packed in foam cut-outs and cardboard, ensuring their safe arrival,” the museum said in a statement.
“Our experts at the NMI have identified these items as flat axeheads from the Early Bronze Age, a significant archaeological find that offers a glimpse into Ireland’s distant past.”
According to the National Museum of Ireland website, the “unregulated and inappropriate use of detection devices” is subject to “severe penalties” under the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2014, because it “causes serious damage to Ireland’s archaeological heritage.” This includes using a metal detector without explicit written permission from the Minister for Culture and Heritage – currently, Minister Catherine Martin.
Breaking this law can result in a fine of up to €63,486, and/or up to 3 months imprisonment.
“It is illegal to be in possession of a detection device at monuments and sites protected under the National Monuments Acts [or] to use a detection device to search for archaeological objects anywhere within the State or its territorial seas without the prior written consent of the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht,” the website reads, adding that it is even illegal to promote the sale or use of metal detectors for the purposes of searching for archaeological objects.
“Anyone who finds an archaeological object must report it to the National Museum of Ireland or designated local museum within 96 hours,” they add.
Searching for archaeological objects located underwater without formal consent from the Minister is even more serious, and can result in a fine of up to €126,972 and/or up to a year in prison.
Despite these facts, the Irish Antiquities Division of the National Museum are seeking further information on the artefacts.
“To fully understand and appreciate these artefacts, it’s crucial to know the exact location where they were found,” the museum’s statement said.
“The context of such discoveries helps archaeologists piece together ancient settlement patterns and cultural practices. For instance, hoards or collections of objects were often deliberately placed in specific locations for reasons that could range from ritualistic to supernatural.
“With this in mind, we are appealing to the person who sent these axeheads to reach out to us. Any information about their discovery will be treated with the utmost confidentiality and used solely to verify the find location and its circumstances.”
The National Museum of Ireland is currently participating in an international study of Bronze Age metalwork, aiming to trace the origins of the metals used in such artefacts. Details about the find spot of these axeheads could provide critical data for this research.
Matt Seaver, Assistant Keeper of Irish Antiquities at the NMI, shared his excitement: “We are thrilled about the discovery of these Early Bronze Age axeheads, but to truly understand their significance, we need to know where they were found.”
He also reminded the public of the importance of reporting archaeological finds: “It is our legal duty to report the discovery of archaeological objects. The NMI’s role is to preserve these treasures for everyone in the State, ensuring they are available for future generations. We rely on the public’s support to achieve this.
“We also wish to remind everyone about the regulations surrounding the use of metal detectors for searching archaeological objects. Archaeological finds without a known owner are the property of the state and are preserved as part of our collective heritage in national and designated museums. More information on this topic can be found on our website at museum.ie.
“If you have any information about these axeheads or any other archaeological discoveries, please contact us at antiquitiesdo@museum.ie or call 01-6777444.
“Your cooperation and support are invaluable in helping us preserve Ireland’s rich heritage for generations to come.”