The Eight Banners were an administrative division under which all Manchu households were placed.

In the conquest phase, the Manchu armies started with four banners which were later expanded to eight. In these early times, new tribes that were assimilated into the Manchu army were divided over these banners to prevent mutiny. Especially loyal clans were allowed to remain intact and were placed under a single banner. Once the Qing was established, Manchus were born under a certain banner and typically served under that banner for life, although in rare cases entire families were moved from one banner to another.

For an elaborate article, see: Bāqí (八旗)

ChineseBāqí (八旗)
Manchu: Jakūn Gūsa

Do you have anything for sale?

I might be interested in buying it.

Contact me

With a golden damascened lock of the Indo-Portuguese type.

€17500,-

Very good example with a finely carved warrior scene.

€3000,-

Probably of Southern origin, with a straight blade and flaring tip.

€2200,-

In the style of northern work of the 16th and 17th centuries

€3000,-

Southern Chinese officer style saber with later inscription H.Hunt 1876.

€2000,-

A simple utilitarian weapon, probably made for rural martial artists or militia.

€450,-