Language: Mandarin Chinese
Source: Classical literature

Description

Dāobǎ shù (刀把束) literally means "handle loop". It is the ferrule, the metal fitting around the top of the handle, just under the guard. Its function is to keep the grip from splitting and ensure a good fit against the guard.

An alternative word used is bǎ gū (靶箍) or "handle loop".2

For a complete overview, see: A Chinese saber glossary.

Ferrule on Chinese saber

A Chinese saber ferrule of the round style. Late 18th / early 19th century.

References
1. Tongwen Guanghui Quanshu (同文廣彙全書) or "Enlarged and complete dictionary" of 1704. A Qing imperial dictionary in Chinese and Manchu, each entry double checked and approved by the Kangxi emperor.
2. Qinding Gongbu Junqi Zeli (欽定工部軍器則例) or "Imperial regulations and precedents on weapons and military equipment by the Ministry of Public Works", 1813. Chapter 36.

Do you have anything for sale?

I might be interested in buying it.

Contact me

A very rare Chinese saber guard dating from the height of the Qing dynasty.

€1500,-

Of classic shape, with a leaf-shaped blade on a socket, connected by a cast bronze base.

€375,-

A standard pattern Qing military saber, but with the rare addition of a label in Manchu.

€1900,-

A robust and heavy example, crafted with care.

€750,-

Unusual Chinese duanjian with fine gilt mounts and a blade of non-Chinese origin.

€3200,-

Constructed out of dense hardwood and with fine mother-of-pearl inlays in the Vietnamese fashion.

€2000,-