Mason's zex
William Brade
Category
Tools
Date
circa 1888 - circa 1914
Materials
Steel, Wood
Measurements
392 mm (Length)55 mm (W)50 mm (W)88 mm (Length)
Order this imageCollection
Finch Foundry, Devon
NT 55312
Summary
Mason's zex, or axe. Rectilinear shaped blade, one edge is sharpened, and the blade back has a spike projection. The spike projection is for making the nail hole, whilst the blade is for dressing the slate to size. The tool has a complete handle held in position by a metal collar. This example is made by William Brade and stamped 'Brades'. Similar item features in the Finch Bros catalogue, item no. 23.
Provenance
Transferred to the Trust from North Dartmoor Museums Association 1994 - OKMDL number 1991.390.1
Makers and roles
William Brade, maker