Ming-dynasty Sword with Octagon Iron Cross-guard and Wood Grip Picture 1

Swords had evolved into a versatile apparatus that combined functions of weapons, mascots, ornaments, antiques, etc. when it came to the Ming dynasty (1368-1644 AD), which also witness an emergence of sword manuals or tutorials with the increasing number of martial arts practitioners in the folk.
Weighing 708g, this Ming-dynasty folk sword has two parallel spines and ridges in the middle of the blade. Its hilt features embellishment typical of folk swords. The octagon iron cross-guard is in the shape of a lotus flower, with the side towards the blade decorated with motifs of lotus blossom petals. The parameter of the grip grows towards the pommel.