Chinese sword: real or fake?

[Bill M]

Originally Posted by josh stout

I am not sure what is referred to by the "hanger holes" but the suspension system looks to be authentic late 19thC manufacture. I would love to see a picture of half moon shaped holes as the late pieces I have all look like this one. Josh

Sure Josh. Here are examples on some of my dao and a jian. The dao have old or original fittings. The jian has Long Quan fittings that are careful copies of the originals.

All these pieces were either bought from Phillip Tom or recommended by him.

He told me there were periods where the holes were punched, like the half-moon or drilled. I really can't remember which is better or if there really is a huge difference in the age or quality. It seems he liked the half-moon. But it may also be that he liked the half-moon for a particular period. I wish I could be more certain.

Incidentally the one with the ball pommel has the yellow grip cord indicating it belonged to a royal family member. That one is a a goose quill. The others are willow leaf and the ox-tail.