Head on a spike

Placing a severed head on a spike (or pike or pole) is a custom used sometimes in human history and in culture. The symbolic value may change over time. It may give a warning to spectators. The head may be a human head or an animal head.

Oliver Cromwell's head was placed on a spike and erected in the 17th century. A drawing from the late 18th century.

Noted examples


See also

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