East Asia, China, Warring States Period, ca. 475 to 221 BCE. A short sword - known as a duan jian - that is cast from bronze via the lost wax technique. The stocky sword features a double-edged blade with sharpened peripheries, a prominent midrib, a pointed tip, and a discoid pommel on top ensures that their hand did not accidentally slip off mid-swing - although a bronze sword from this era probably never saw use in battle. Chinese metalworkers developed smelting techniques for iron and steel around 500 BCE and by 300 BCE most weapons were made of iron. However, this sword was probably made to serve as a grave good, a ceremonial mark of high status. This piece must have been buried in a particularly airless and water-free grave to be so well preserved! Size: 14.75" L x 1.75" W (37.5 cm x 4.4 cm); blade only: 11.25" L x 1.5" W (28.6 cm x 3.8 cm)

Provenance: ex-Clearwater, Florida, USA collection, from the 2000s or earlier

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#178447

Blade is repaired from 2 pieces, but nearly indiscernible break line. Loss and perforations to handle as shown. Chips and surface abrasions. Overall great condition with green patina. Comes in a vintage silk box.