Bronze sword decorated with a crisscross pattern which was etched into the blade by a special method which used copper sulphide. Weapons treated in this way were not only attractive but also rust-proof. This exquisitely wrought sword was not used by soldiers or junior officers; it must have been the weapon of a high ranking officer. We have the impression that the edges were made from a harder bronze alloy than the rest of the sword. They are still quite sharp. The condition of the sword is also good because it has been protected by its scabbard which has however decayed. It dates from the Warring States (475 – 221BC) to the Western Han (206BC – 25AD) periods. Length 50 cm. THIS ITEM WAS SOLD AT AUCTION IN 2024.