Insights into Chinese ring pommel swords

[Gavin Nugent]

Having had and still having a number of diferent variations of the ring pommel from the simple ring to the double gourd type I find them of little martial use. Whilst it is possible tassle/rags were tied to the ring pommel, genuine untouched examples I have had were actually sewn to the grip wrap, though I am sure I have seen images of others tied and may still have some on file...I have a look.

For me I see these ring pommel as two fold, a/ A simple manufacturing method that can be done at the forge and there is no need for a seperate pommel to be attached and then having the tang, simple economics. b/ Symbolism.

Gav

[Jim McDougall]

On the 'blood' dynamics with tassels, cloths etc. ...it seems the folklore with weapons and blood features are virtually a given as battle stories are embellished through the years. The most common is of course the 'blood gutters', a cleverly construed story for the less colorful reason for these blade channels, simply to lighten and strengthen the blade. Yet these perceptions persist in lesser informed story telling.
Notches in blades, sword catchers, sliding weights on blades, multiple blades, serrated blades purpose in battle, wavy blades, all have dramatic tales of thier functions, though most have been proven to be fanciful license.

The tassels seem more embellishment than useful as described. It is hard to imagine that distraction would be in the least bit feasible in the melee, where confusion and chaos reigns. In civilian martial arts demonstrations, of course it would be impressive to spectators.

I think Fearn and Gav's comments emphasizing the mastery of Oriental simplicity are well placed, and it is easy to see how this functional feature would be maintained. It is interesting to consider that perhaps centuries ago, there was a time when it was embellished with symbolism, eventually returning to its less symbolized presence.

All best regards,
Jim

[Nathaniel]

Picture of some more ring pommels

[Neil]

Wow! I really appreciate the great response. I am glad I could contribute a topic that people are interested in. One thing I was musing about was the question of who used these swords, and what was their station in society. Do we know if they were found throughout China or only regionally. Also, why would one use, choose, or be issued this type of sword over a liuyedao and yanmaodao etc. To narrow the time-line down a little I was thinking particularly about the last few centuries, which I believe includes many of the examples collectors and enthusiasts like ourselves have in their possession today. Maybe the answers to some of these questions might enrich our perspective on the original question. Honestly, I do not have any solid answers at this point so I look forward to the information others can offer.

[Maskell]

Gentleman,

A few ring pommel swords from my collection. The one on the far left is inscribed in Chinese "FEB 1943 Made". The tallest one in the image towards the right has been ID as being 2nd to 5th century AD by a very knowledgeable collector.

Best,
Jerry

[Neil]

Thanks for sharing the picture. There are definitely some interesting pieces. I am curious about others thoughts on the dates of the swords 4 through 8 from the left. This is relative to my previous question of who would use these swords. Would they be classified as civilian, village militia, military, or rebellion arms. Maybe they could be any of the above. As far as I can tell there is very little scholarship available in English on this subject. So for now the collective knowledge of this type of group on the forum seems very important.