An asymmetric cast bronze axe with slightly flared handle has geometric patterns comprising two bands of concentric lozenges, partly obscured by a green and blue patina.Bronze artefacts of the Dong Son period in island Southeast Asia reflect the evolving complexity of these early cultures. The production of bronzes required a sophisticated division of labour that is thought to have parallels in wet rice cultivation. During this time technological innovations in bronze casting provided the foundation for the Hindu-Buddhist kingdoms of Java and Bali that were to follow.
