帶鞘青銅短劍|Short Sword and Sheath with Crouching Feline
Unknown Artist
10th–8th century BC
Medium
Bronze
Dimensions
Sword: L. 9 in. (22.9 cm) Scabbard: L. 5 3/4 in. (14.6 cm); W. 2 1/2 in. (6.4 cm)
Classification
Metalwork
Culture
Northeast China
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Eugene V. Thaw, 2002
Accession Number
2002.201.32a, b
Art Historical Context
This exquisite bronze short sword and sheath, hailing from Northeast China in the 10–8th century BC offers a glimpse into the Bronze artistry of ancient warriors. Measuring just 9 inches long for the sword and featuring a compact scabbard adorned with a crouching feline, this weapon exemplifies the region's masterful metalwork. The feline—likely a tiger or leopard—captured in dynamic repose, suggests symbolic power, evoking ferocity and protection in a world where arms were both practical tools and status symbols. Crafted in bronze, a hallmark material of the era, the piece highlights advance...