Antique Vietnamese Trường đao Executioner’s Sword, Nguyễn Dynasty, Indochina, 57 Cm

A rare antique Vietnamese trường đao, traditionally identified as an executioner’s sword, dating from the late 19th or early 20th century during the period of French Indochina and the Nguyễn dynasty.

Inspired by the Chinese dadao, this distinctively Vietnamese weapon has a broad, single-edged steel blade with a dramatic sweeping curve and an exaggerated widening towards its concave clipped tip. This blade profile is characteristic of Vietnamese trường đao and differs from the generally more restrained form of the Chinese dadao.

Both sides of the blade are engraved with scrolling decorative motifs. Near the hilt are the Chinese characters 長生, meaning “long life” or “longevity.” Chinese characters were historically used in Vietnam as part of the chữ Hán writing tradition.

The grip is tightly bound with cord and terminates in a large ring-shaped pommel. A brass-lined suspension hole is positioned near the tip of the blade.

Broad Vietnamese swords of this form are frequently described as executioner’s swords, although the same powerful cutting form could also have been employed as a martial weapon.

Origin: Vietnam, French Indochina.

Period: Late 19th or early 20th century, Nguyễn dynasty.

Total length: 57 cm.

Good condition. The blade retains areas of old surface oxidation and pitting, clearly visible in the photographs.

SOLD WITH A CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY

Payment in instalments is available. Please contact me for further details.

You are welcome to contact me by telephone on 06 78 67 97 16 or by email at tdixonfrance@yahoo.co.uk

Postage within France is included in the price. International shipping is charged separately; please contact me for a quotation. I am always happy to combine postage for several purchases.

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I am an Englishman living in rural Southern France and have been a full-time professional dealer in Asian art and antiques for over 50 years. I was formerly a senior specialist and auctioneer in London. I travel extensively throughout France, visiting local brocantes, antique fairs and private collections in search of unusual and authentic objects.

I am always happy to offer advice and answer questions regarding your collection. I reply promptly to all enquiries.

Your satisfaction is important to me. If an object is found not to correspond with its description, I offer a complete refund without question.

All objects are carefully and professionally packed. I have many years of experience sending valuable and fragile antiques safely throughout the world.

We speak English and French. Nous parlons anglais et français.

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