SOLD Antique Chinese Tibetan Qing Dynasty Dagger KnifeJeweled Silver

The hilt is composed of two buffalo horn grip scales, mounted with an embossed and finely pierced cup pommel. The rosewood scabbard is adorned with silver fittings intricately crafted in repousse low relief. The fittings are finely pierced with images of a dragon, two red birds (zhu qiao), a phoenix (Fenghuang), and a lion amidst foliage and scrollwork. Additionally, 7 natural coral stones and 6 natural turquoise stones are set in the fittings. The suspension mount is in the form of a stylized mythical dragon. The suspension ring retains an original fabric cord.

The dagger comes with two bone chopsticks that are mounted with silver cups.

NOTE: Under the Qianlong emperor (reigned 1736-1796), wearing these sets became mandatory for all Manchus and Mongols. Their tradition had been cutting meat straight from the bone. This was in contrast to the Chinese method of eating, where the food was pre-cut into bite-sized pieces that could be eaten with chopsticks. In an attempt to preserve elements of the frugal and outdoor nature of the Manchu and Mongol lifestyles under the Qing, it was illegal for them to have their meat pre-cut. And so, all Manchus and Mongols were required to wear these trousse sets to eat their meat traditionally.

CONDITION: Shows age and use.

Please see all 7 pictures in the listing, as they are part of the object's condition description.

MEASUREMENTS:

Overall length of the knife, sheathed in the scabbard: 29.5cm (11.61 inches).

REFERENCES: "A Glossary of The Construction, Decoration and Use of Arms and Armor" by George Cameron Stone. We will also provide the buyer with photocopies of the pages from the mentioned references together with a certificate of authenticity.