Great Size Vietnamese Saber

This large saber is undoubtedly from Indochina. The names of the countries in the areahave changed since the 19th century, so we will define it as "Vietnamese" in the broadest sense. The style of the handle, which combines iron and deer antler, is also found on certain sabers with mother-of-pearl inlaid scabbards from the Vietnamese region.
BLADE : it is large, long and particularly thick, with a single edge. This very solid aspect of the blade, and its thickness have led some authors to classify this type of weapon as an execution saber, but according to my analysis it is rather a saber intended for cavalry, or a temple saber.
On one side, rich line decoration, executed in a stylized way, where we can recognize classic symbols of Buddhism: Going from the handle towards the tip: Millennial Turtle, Dragon of the Mists, the Jewel which gives all powers, a small calligraphy, Bird of Paradise, and Catfish.
On the other side, plant and flower motifs.
Blade length = 82 cm, width near the guard 3 cm, which gradually widens in the last third to 3.4 cm, thickness near the guard = 7 mm
GUARD: it is made of single-branch steel (knuckle bow), which widens as it flattens to form the cross guard and ends in a rolled quillon.
HILT  Grip it is made of deer antler with two iron ferrules, the lower ferrule is connected to the guard by a fluted part and a thin copper washer with serrated edges. The upper ferrule which serves as a pommel and is surmounted by the end of the knuckle bow which is forged in the shape of a small serrated disc on which the tang of the blade is riveted.
SCABBARD : it is made of rosewood, with a scabbard entry, intermediate piece and brass chape. Very small crushing at the tip of the chape.
This type of saber is rare, and entirely in the Vietnamese tradition of the 19th century. It is therefore not a production for tourists in search of exoticism...
Shipping costs France 30 €, Western Europe 40 €
ref X2Y-25/2-18