Sword
In its complete state, this excavated bronze sword would have included an integral disk-shaped pommel positioned perpendicularly to the axis of the grip. The double-edged blade bears on one side an inscription that seemingly records the circumstances of the sword's manufacture. However, the execution of the writing suggests that the inscription is either a modern addition or an original text that was defaced when the original characters were engraved over in a misguided attempt to make them clearer.
Artwork Details
- Title: Sword
- Date: 5th–4th century BCE
- Culture: Chinese
- Medium: Bronze
- Dimensions: L. 18 3/8 in. (46.7 cm); W. 2 1/4 in. (5.7 cm); Wt. 1 lb. 9.9 oz. (734.3 g)
- Classification: Swords
- Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1912
- Object Number: 12.37.145
- Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor
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Chinese, Yan kingdom
3rd century BCE
Chinese
4th–3rd century BCE
Vietnamese
ca. 5th–2nd century BCE
Scythian or Sarmatian
4th–2nd century BCE
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