Halberd blade (ge)

Object Details

• Description

  The long, slender horizontal blade curves downward toward the point; the contour of the lower edge of that blade is interrupted by a broad concave curve that merges with three cusped projections on the hu, or downward elongation of the edge. There is a curved median crest. A narrower, hooked blade projects from the opposite side of the halbred. It curves downward and, on the lower edge, joins two cusped projections. These slender, gracefully proportioned curving blades provide a dramatic contrast with the wide, crested blade that rises vertically between them. Six small rectangular vertical slits arranged on the lower portion of the halberd served to lash it to the wooden shaft. The entire surface of the halberd is covered with a mottled green and, occasionally, blue patina. Earth accretions also appear on the surface of the weapon's three blades. The wide vertical blade has a horizontal break that subsequently has been repaired.

• Collection

  Freer Gallery of Art Collection

• Exhibition History

  Chinese Art of the Warring States Period: Change and Community, 480-222 B.C. (September 30, 1982 to February 17, 1983)

• Origin

  China

• Credit Line

  Gift of General and Mrs. Albert Wedemeyer

• Type

  Weapon and Armament

• Restrictions and Rights

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Keep Exploring

• Related Resources

  collections.si.edu

• Date

  BCE 0s

• Place

  China

• Topic

  Bronze, Art, Sculpture, Eastern Zhou dynasty (770 - 221 BCE), Chinese Art, Metal-work

• Culture

  Chinese

• Object Type

  Weapons, Armor (protective wear)