THE QING SWORD (SH2007) CAS HANWEI
The traditional perception of the Taiji sword becomes very apparent in the Qing Sword. The last of the Chinese Dynasties, the Qing (Ching) Dynasty was overthrown by rebellion as late as 1911, by which time the Taiji sword had completed its evolution into the “modern” form. This fully functional sword is crafted around a beautifully pattern-welded K120C blade with a flattened diamond section. The guard and pommel are constructed of gilded steel featuring a flying bat design, which in Chinese ideology symbolizes happiness and good fortune. The scabbard decorations are in gilded brass and the intricate knot-work of the tassel is art in its own right.

THE QING DYNASTY
The Qing Dynasty, also known as the Manchu Dynasty, was the last ruling dynasty of China, ruling from 1644 to 1912 (with a brief, abortive restoration in 1917). It was preceded by the Ming Dynasty and followed by the Republic of China. Originally established as the Jin Dynasty, in 1616, it changed its name to "Qing", meaning "clear" or "pellucid", in 1636. In Chinese art, the bat is a symbol of happiness and longevity, and the word for happiness, is pronounced the same way as the word for bat. According to legend, bats were able to live for a thousand years; silver in color, legend held that they fed on stalactites and that, if consumed by humans, they would increase one's longevity. One bat symbolized happiness, two bats represented redoubled good fortune and five bats represented the Five Blessings (a long life, riches, health, love of virtue, and a natural death.)