CHINESE EXECUTIONERS SWORD

Boxer Rebellion period, Late 19th century. 22 3/4” curved blade of elegant form, tapered in thickness from the root to the point. The back pierced for the attachment of a colorful streamer which would serve as a warning to all, as it fluttered on the fatal down stroke. Oval iron guard of thin section serving only to prevent the hand from contacting the blade. Military swords were equipped with guards capable of defending from an opponents blow. Original cord wrapped grip which engages the iron pommel ring on both sides. Grip wrap sound, tight and showing superficial soiling only. The guard with thin pitch covering . Blade with gray surface patina and minor abrasions from use. China’s defeat by Japan in 1895 brought an influx of foreign influence which met immediate resistance. Centuries old secret societies banded together to form a nationalist movement intent on driving out all foreigners and those influenced by them, particularly Christian Chinese. Westerners dubbed the revolutionaries Boxers, a loose translation of the name of one of the societies. Embracing the old ways, their weapon of choice was the back sword, many of which were produced for the rebellion. While the victims were often slain where they were found, sometimes, public executions were used to drive the message home to any who had not learned to fear the Boxers or reject the ways of the outside world. Tens of thousands, along with hundreds of foreigners, many missionaries, were executed.