China, Warring States Period, 475 to 221 BCE. An excellent example of an ancient sword type. The narrow, straight blade is bronze, cast in one piece with a guard, grip, and pommel; the guard is bronze. This type of sword is called a jian, a double-edged straight sword that has been used in China for 2500 years; this is a fairly short, one-handed version of the type. Comes with custom stand. Size: 1.75" W x 18.75" H (4.4 cm x 47.6 cm)

This style of hilt - with the twin rings around the grip, a small guard, and a round pommel that may once have had something inset atop it - is classic of the Warring States period. We know of some examples that had turquoise set into the pommel and studded along the guard - it is interesting to imagine this piece with similar decoration when originally made.

Provenance: Ex-Private LA County collection formed over the period between 1980 and 2000.

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#119824

Shape is excellent; rough green patina overall with very slight nicks to the blade edge.