Dagger-Axe with Figural Decoration

The ge is a pole weapon that consists of a dagger-shape blade, mounted by its shank to a perpendicular wooden staff. These bronze weapons were used by foot soldiers and later adopted by chariot-mounted warriors, remaining in use until the Western Han conquest of the Dian kingdom in 109 B.C.E., almost two thousand years ago. Dagger-axes with such elaborate design, however, were most likely employed for ceremonial purposes.