Zhou Sword
Dublin Core
Title
Zhou Sword
Jian
Subject
Sword
China
Weapon
Description
Jian is the Chinese term for a double-edged straight sword. The jian/sword discussed here refers specifically to the bronze type made during 481-221 BC, of which this is an example.
The bronze jian were first used by the Zhou dynasty during the late Spring and Autumn period of Chinese history. However, they were only worn as secondary (backup) weapons by troops armed with spears and dagger-axes. This means they would only be used if the spear or axe was lost, destroyed, or otherwise rendered ineffective.
The jian developed from the dagger. Daggers were also used as secondary weapons, and continued to be used alongside the jian.
Swords did gain a certain “mystique,” as unique weapons to be worn for display purposes, like daggers. With the rise of iron, bronze swords became irrelevant, and were replaced by curved swords for cavalry, elaborate display swords, and iron swords.
The bronze jian were first used by the Zhou dynasty during the late Spring and Autumn period of Chinese history. However, they were only worn as secondary (backup) weapons by troops armed with spears and dagger-axes. This means they would only be used if the spear or axe was lost, destroyed, or otherwise rendered ineffective.
The jian developed from the dagger. Daggers were also used as secondary weapons, and continued to be used alongside the jian.
Swords did gain a certain “mystique,” as unique weapons to be worn for display purposes, like daggers. With the rise of iron, bronze swords became irrelevant, and were replaced by curved swords for cavalry, elaborate display swords, and iron swords.
Creator
Zhou China
Date
c. 481 - 221 BC
Rights
Held by Madison Art Collection, JMU
Contributor
Zhou Dynasty
Relation
Similar examples can be found in the Macao Museum of Art, the San Diego Museum of Art, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, and the Hunan Provincial Museum.
Format
Sword
Physical Object Item Type Metadata
Physical Dimensions
Overall length: 47.7cm
Blade length: 40cm
Hilt length: 7.7cm
Materials
Bronze
Accession Number
76.1.778
Note
Missing circular pommel and hilt rings
Files
Collection
Citation
Zhou China, “Zhou Sword,” Derek's Omeka site, accessed April 26, 2024, https://derekenglehistory.omeka.net/items/show/2.