before 1916
Iron, wood, and copper
Overall: 26.7 cm (10 1/2 in.); Handle: 43.2 cm (17 in.)
Gift of J. H. Wade 1916.739
Songye artists working in various metals produced a variety of ornamental objects, like this one used as an insignia of high office. Each column supporting the blade was decorated with a face, then forged, and twisted individually before being welded in place to create an intricate openwork design. The wooden handle is completely covered in copper, a precious metal reserved for rulers.
The information about this object, including provenance, may not be currently accurate. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@clevelandart.org.
To request more information about this object, study images, or bibliography, contact the Ingalls Library Reference Desk.
All images and data available through Open Access can be downloaded for free. For images not available through Open Access, a detail image, or any image with a color bar, request a digital file from Image Services.