This scarce duandao dates to the late Qing Dynasty, circa 1890. The duandao was used mainly as a secondary weapon worn on one’s belt and was often a status symbol. The short blade with a slight upwardly curving point was effective for both slashing and thrusting.
Swords like these were used by the Boxers during their rebellion (1899-1901). Many duandao held by collectors in the West were brought back as souvenirs by returning British and American soldiers.
The 476mm single-edged blade has narrow double fullers below a flat spine and terminates in a hatchet point with a 170mm upper false edge. The blade is approximately 40mm wide at the base and narrows to 22mm before the point.
The blade is in good condition with a pleasing patina. The edge remains sharp.
The downward curving hilt has an oval cross-section, typical of swords of the late Qing Dynasty. The hardwood hilt is wrapped with shagreen with a copper binding. The shagreen remains tight and intact with a few closed cracks. The tang is peened through the brass pommel which is decorated with a foliate design. The design is repeated on the hilt ferrule and on the oval brass disk guard. The blade is firm in the hilt.
The sword is complete with its shagreen covered wooden scabbard with decorative brass mounts. The scabbard is in overall very good condition with a small repair to the shagreen near the lower band. The mouth of the scabbard retains its red felt and the sword sheathes and draws smoothly from the scabbard.
This is a scarce example of an attractive late 19th Century duandao. A beautiful Chinese hanger.
£695.00
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