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Saber with Scabbard and Belt Hook (清 腰刀)

Date: probably 18th century

Culture: Chinese

Medium: Steel, iron, silk, leather, wood

Dimensions: L. 36 in. (91.4 cm); blade L. 28 1/2 in. (72.4 cm)

Classification: Swords

Credit Line: Bequest of George C. Stone, 1935

Accession Number: 36.25.1477a, b

Not on view
This saber is particularly noteworthy for the beauty and complexity of its pattern-welded blade. As horseback archers, the Manchus had a unique way of wearing their sabers, with the hilt inclined toward the back rather than the front. This made room for a bow and bow case, which were worn on the left hip over the saber, along with a quiver of arrows on the right hip.
George Cameron Stone, New York (until d. November 18, 1935; his bequest to MMA).
Tom, Philip M. W. "Some Notable Sabers of the Qing Dynasty at the Metropolitan Museum of Art." Metropolitan Museum Journal (2001), pp. 11, 211–12, figs. 10–11, pl. 3.

Liu, Shi-yee. "'Show and Tell': The Art of Storytelling in Chinese Painting." Orientations 47, no. 8 p. 53, fig. 18.

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