A CHINESE BRONZE SWORD (JIAN), PROBABLY ZHOU DYNASTY... Lot n° 52

A CHINESE BRONZE SWORD (JIAN), PROBABLY ZHOU DYNASTY OR EARLY WARRING STATES (1050-221 BC); AND THREE FURTHER SWORDS IN ZHOU DYNASTY STYLE; the first in excavated condition, cast in one piece, with broad double-edged blade of flattened-diamond section, moulded guard formed with a low triangular downward point on each face, integral grip with a pair of raised bands and shallow concave pommel; the second and third similar, and the fourth with decorated cross-guard, all in aged condition; the first: 48.0 cm; 18 7/8 in overall; (4);