Bronze Sword with Inlaid Turquoise from Spring & Autumn and Warring States Period Overall Picture I

The appearance of this sword is typical of those casted by the state of Yue during the Spring & Autumn and Warring States period (770-221 BC). With a clear central ridge line on a wide, flat blade shaped by two beautiful curvy edges in exact symmetry, this sword is testimony to the ingenious craftsmanship of ancient sword-makers.
The cross-guard of this sword is decorated with traditional Chinese taotie patterns, in the dents of which there are inlaid turquoises. As one of the four most famous varieties of jade, turquoise has been adopted as a precious ornament since ancient times. Traces of inlaid turquoise can often be found on the cross-guards of many higher-level ancient bronze swords. It is a rare case that most of the turquoises that can still display such an elegant light blue color on this sword and have been kept in such a good condition, as turquoise ornaments fade and fall off easily.