Sword Item Number: Edz1359 a-b from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Double edged straight steel sword (a) with sharp triangular point and cast copper alloy decorations at hilt and end; handle is wood carved in straight longitudinal lines. 8 Chinese characters on one side of sword and 4 on the other. Scabbard (b) is green and black mottled lacquered wood with cast metal decorations at both ends, and 3 raised bands along body. All metal shows central symbol surrounded by floral design, rounded and/or scalloped at edges. Metal is patinated, black with green spots at hilt. Lacquer is worn, and chipped. Sword coated from both edges in dried brown liquid; rust at hilt.
History Of Use
Shaman's knife with which he would cut himself, while in a trance state. He used blood to write charms.
Cultural Context
ritual use
Iconographic Meaning
Brass decoration on hilt and scabbard feature a symbol similar to the mystic symbol 'lu', ? representative of riches.
Item History
- Made in China before 1980
- Collected before 1980
- Owned by Dorian Rae before October 31, 1980
- Received from Museum of Anthropology Shop Volunteers (Funding source) and Dorian Rae (Seller) on October 31, 1980
What
Who
- Culture
- Chinese
- Previous Owner
- Dorian Rae
- Received from
- Museum of Anthropology Shop Volunteers (Funding source) and Dorian Rae (Seller)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- China
When
- Creation Date
- before 1980
- Collection Date
- before 1980
- Ownership Date
- before October 31, 1980
- Acquisition Date
- on October 31, 1980
Other
- Item Classes
- metalwork
- Condition
- fair
- Accession Number
- 0677/0007