龍泉 Longquan Jian Chinese sword and scabbard, Qing dynasty Longquan, located in Zhejiang Province, China, is a traditional sword-making region. In particular, the "Longquan Sword" (Lóngquán Bǎojiàn) is famous, with a history said to span over 2,500 years. It is regarded as a symbol of fine craftsmanship and legendary blades in China. Known Lóngquán makers: Several workshops are mentioned in Chinese sources. These were called jiàn pù (剑铺) or sword shops. 1) Qiān Zì Hao (千字号). Founded 1748. Active to at least Guangxu period (1875-1908). 1748, the 13th year of Qianlong, blacksmith Zhèng Yì Shēng ((郑义生) opened the shop in Lóngquán East Street. He used a traditional method of guàn gāng (灌钢), combining molten pig iron and wrought iron to make swords. The method resulted in sharp swords that do not rust easily. 2) 1830 (circa), Daoguang period, the Liào Tài Hé (廖太和) sword shop was known for skilled lòukè gōng (镂刻工), carving, in a decorative style of the Warring States period. 3) 1858 (8th year of Xianfeng). The Taiping Army was stationed in Lóngquán and needed a large number of swords and weapons. The fourth-generation grandson of Zhèng Yì Shēng, Zhèng Sāngǔ (郑三古)'s shop was overwhelmed by the surge in demand. Description: Old Chinese Jian sword and scabbard. Straight double edged blade with brass inlaid circles to either side of the fuller. Mounts in pierced brass openwork with dragons and inscribed motifs throughout. Total length: 36 1/8" = 91.75 cm; Blade length: 28 7/8" = 73.34 cm; Provenance: Ex-Southern California Estate Similar sword is exhibited in Metropolitan Museum, New York, USA (the last photo #14)