A very rare Chinese saber guard dating from the height of the Qing dynasty.
This item has been sold.
Length
Sheathed 28.2 cm
Knife 25.5 cm
Blade 15.8 cm
Weight
Sheathed 56 grams
Knife 20 grams
Materials
Iron, bone, báitóng, wood, lacquer, brass
Origin
China
Dating
19th century
Sold
Description
A delicate Chinese trousse set consisting of a sheath, knife, and chopsticks. It has the less usual configuration of having the chopsticks on either side of the blade. Hilt and scabbard are lacquered black, inlaid with bone. Some of the bone is dyed green. The mounts are made of the prized báitóng (白銅).
The lacquer work is done in a way that it is flush with the mounts; it gives a nice overall appearance and the added benefit of keeping the mounts firmly in place.
The designs are of peach blossoms and bamboo, together with a cypress tree. Together these are celebrated as the Suì hán sānyǒu (歲寒三友) or "Three friends of winter." Because these hardy plants do not wither in winter, they have come to symbolize steadfastness, perseverance, and resilience.
A very charming set. 19th century.
Currently available:
Of classic shape, with a leaf-shaped blade on a socket, connected by a cast bronze base.
€375,-
A standard pattern Qing military saber, but with the rare addition of a label in Manchu.
€1900,-
