A Rare 9th-12th Century Saber

[TVV]

Originally Posted by katana

Hi Teodor,
with no references to refer to ....I would think , that with the advanced sword making technology that China poccessed (which later travelled to Japan), it is extremely likely that the steppe tribes adopted the habaki-like componant.

Does anyone know if a habaki-like part were used on bronze bladed swords ....(those with a seperate hilt) ?

Regards David

Interesting argument David,
And I think the answer lies in figuring out the purpose of this element.
Some sugegst is helps the sword fit tighter into the scabbard and stops moisture from enetring inside the scabbard. Maybe true, but then why is it always longer on the edge side?
Another explanation has to do with the need to place the thumb and forefinger over the guard for a better grip when an archery ring is worn. However, people who practice fencing tell me that the archery ring really does not make much of a difference to a normal grip, but then again, who knows what was the traditional grip back then. If this version is correct, then the element would have originated from the style of warfare in the steppes, and thus it would be a steppe innovation and not a Chinese one.
In any case, we should be careful not to fall victim about preconceived notions about Chinese superiority, especially when one considers that the sabre was a steppe innovation, which reached China through contact with its Northern and Western neighbors,a nd not vice versa.
Regards,
Teodor