Three Breton bronze axes type Dahouet, late Bronze Age to early Iron Age of western Europe, 10th - 5th century B.C. Cast socket axes with a square cross-section at the opening. The cross-section becomes increasingly rectangular towards the minimally curved cutting edge. The sides along the axe blade are slightly curved, the upper and lower sides curve out slightly towards the cutting edge with a cast ridge in the middle and a semicircular eyelet on one side. The square muzzle is surrounded by a strong bulge with a prominent ridge as a fold. A thin rib all around between the muzzle and the eyelet. Length 13.4 - 13.7 cm. Three excellently preserved examples of the Dahouet type with beautiful green patina and minor incrustations. Provenance: Private collection kept in Germany, acquired in the 90s. Condition: I -

Composed of several subsidiaries, the Drouot Group is a major player in the art market. Hôtel Drouot, located in the heart of Paris, has been the world's largest public auction center since 1852. 15 salerooms are available to more than 70 auction houses. The emulation generated by an annual offer of 230,000 artworks from 21 major specialities - from Antiquity to street art - attracts some 3,000 visitors every day. The Group's digital platform, Drouot.com, offers digital sales - Live auctions (live broadcasting and participation in auctions), Online-only auctions (dematerialised auctions) and Buy Now sales (sales of lots at fixed prices). Nearly 2 million items are offered annually by 600 auction houses. Auction news is reported every week in La Gazette Drouot, the leading weekly magazine for the art market and culture published by Auctionspress.