Early Qing Dynasty, the blade showing active layering in its forging, of typical crescent form with pronounced clipped tip, and of relatively thick section at the forte, tapering continuously to the tip. The round steel guard lobed, the wooden grip with steel mounts, the lower ferrule stepped and chiseled, the upper profiled, and interspersed by a series of loose rings; the haft shortened for use as a sword in its working life and capped with horn. 18th century. Worn, minor edge nicks. Overall length 72cm. Condition IV