The origins of the double axe, also called labrys,
the Greeks call them Pelekys,
date back to the 5th millennium BC. The first traces were found in Mesopotamia.
The Minoans used the double axe as a cult object. Mortals were not allowed to lead the double axe, it was attributed to the gods.
This Oinochoe, a single-handed jug, was used as a pouring vessel, often for wine. Original in the museum in Heraklion, Crete, dated to the 15th century B.C. Handpainted Replica as reduction.
A seal on the handle bears the inscription "MUSEUM COPY", on the back "HAND MADE IN GREECE".
