On the 'snail like' crossguard....if I recall correctly it is similar to the jian like guards seen on early kora from Tibetan regions (I think early 18th century and think one is seen in Stone). I think this of course suggests possible far western Chinese frontier use....speculation of course.
Maskell, impressive (and huge!) grouping of these swords......with this number of examples have you worked on any developmental arrangement with variations or possibly other indicators in identification? It would be fascinating to know more!! For me ,condition is irrelevant but learning from these examples would be extremely valuable.
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