Rare Antique 18th C. Choson Joseon Dynasty Korean Hwando Court Sword

A Korean sword in the Japanese style, latter Joseon Dynasty (c. 1800.). Mounts of gilt brass or copper, superbly chiseled on a stippled ground with, sans- serifnaturalism characteristic of the best Korean work. The grip and scabbard covered in leather, the grip with two bands of gilt geometrical motifs, the scabbard painted with lotuses overall. The handforged blade shows evidence of a pattern and appears to have a hardened edge as well. Retaining a sharp edge all the way around the ogival tip, and engraved at the left forte with the Korean Kirin in its earliest form (i.e. that of a deer. This motif was reserved for the nobility and men of note.Retains its gilded collar carved en suite with flowers. With a later but period woven cord suspended from the shoulder and retained under the arm.

Overall length is19 overall length, blade is 11 1/2