Three Rare Korean Sabers
Reprinted from "Sword & Brush" exhibiton catalog
D-027 KOREAN SABER
Blade length 27 1/2 in.
19th century
The heavy blade of qiangang construction, with a marked taper, deep fullers, and short backedge, fitted with a Japanese-inspired collar at forte, mounted with a short tapering grip whose design shows Japanese influence. The octagonal guard as well as all other fittings of iron, decorated with encrusted silver designs. The scabbard of Chinese form, covered with dyed and polished shagreen.
This type of weapon was intended for combat use by a military officer. In general, Korean sabers follow Japanese prototypes whereas the straight swords are very Chinese in appearance. This saber is unusual in that it combines elements from both cultures. Of particular interest is the pommel. Although generally similar to Chinese saber pommels, this specimen’s proportions and shape are also reminiscent of those on the Central Asian and Siberian sabers carried by Mongol forces in the 13th-14th centuries.
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