Items Similar to 20th Century Chinese Zhongzheng/Chengren Commemorative Short Sword and Scabbard
Want more images or videos?
Request additional images or videos from the seller
1 of 10
20th Century Chinese Zhongzheng/Chengren Commemorative Short Sword and Scabbard
$2,100
£1,601.73
€1,823.99
CA$2,951.14
A$3,218.63
CHF 1,705.01
MX$38,586.84
NOK 21,714.31
SEK 19,856.13
DKK 13,626.98
About the Item
20th Century chinese Zhongzheng/Chengren military commemorative short sword and scabbard gifted by Chiang Kai-shek
By: unknown
Material: iron, metal, paint, bronze, copper, wood, shell, steel
Technique: forged, hammered, painted, gilt, carved, metalwork, hand-crafted, hand-painted, hand-carved
Dimensions: 2.5 in x 16 in x 0.5 in
Date: 20th Century, 1930-1945
Style: Art Déco
Place of origin: China
This military commemorative sword embodies a rich history and profound symbolism. Featuring a finely crafted metal blade and a handle made of shell, the sword is complemented by a scabbard crafted from painted wood, adorned with gilt bronze appliqués that showcase intricate floral motifs. The handle bears the inscription 'Gift of Chiang Kai-shek',' the military leader and former president of the Republic of China, who played a significant role in Chinese politics during the 20th century. This is the reason the sword is commonly known as the 'Zhongzheng', referencing Chiang Kai-shek's courtesy name (zi), symbolizing his unwavering dedication to the nation. Also, the blade is inscribed with 'Success and Sacrifice', leading to its alternate name, 'Chengren'. This term reflects Confucian ideals of virtue and loyalty, underscoring the sword's symbolic significance. The sword also earned the somber nicknames 'Sword of Sacrifice' and the more infamous 'Suicide Sword', as it was used by soldiers who, facing capture, chose to end their lives in loyalty to their cause.
Manufactured in limited quantities, these swords were presented to military academy graduates as a recognition of their achievements and commitment to the nation. More than ceremonial pieces, they served as reminders of valor during pivotal conflicts, including the Chinese Civil War and the Second Sino-Japanese War. The intricate design reflects the Art Déco style of its time, marrying functionality with artistry, making the Zhongzheng/Chengren sword a remarkable artifact.
The sword blade exhibits signs of oxidization and wear that point to the passing of time, as shown in the pictures.
- Dimensions:Height: 0.5 in (1.27 cm)Width: 16 in (40.64 cm)Depth: 2.5 in (6.35 cm)
- Style:Art Deco (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:Bronze,Copper,Iron,Metal,Paint,Shell,Steel,Wood,Carved,Cast,Forged,Gilt,Hammered,Hand-Carved,Hand-Crafted,Hand-Painted,Molded
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1930-1945
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use. The sword blade exhibits signs of oxidization and wear that point to the passing of time, as shown in the pictures.
- Seller Location:North Miami, FL
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU8678241720092
About the Seller
5.0
Gold Seller
Premium sellers maintaining a 4.3+ rating and 24-hour response times
Established in 2011
1stDibs seller since 2023
54 sales on 1stDibs
Typical response time: 1 hour
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Return Policy
More From This Seller
View All19th Century Edo-Meiji Period Samurai Tantō Knife/Short Blade Sword and Scabbard
Located in North Miami, FL
19th century Edo-Meiji period samurai Tantō knife/short blade sword and scabbard
By: unknown
Material: iron, metal, paint, steel, leather, wood, lacquer, metal
Technique: forged, ha...
Category
Antique 19th Century Japanese Meiji Arms, Armor and Weapons
Materials
Metal, Copper, Steel, Iron
Mid-20h Century Golden Brass and Leather Letter Opener/Knife by Hermès, France
By Hermès
Located in North Miami, FL
Mid-20h century golden brass and leather letter opener/knife by the luxury design house Hermès Paris, France
By: Hermès Paris
Material: metal, brass, leather, copper, zinc
Technique...
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Letter Openers
Materials
Metal, Brass, Copper, Zinc
Bronze Letter Opener Knife Depicting an Eagle Made by Sculptor Jules Moigniez
By Jules Moigniez
Located in North Miami, FL
Late 19th century bronze letter opener knife depicting an eagle made by french animalier sculptor Jules Moigniez
By: Jules Moigniez
Material: bronze, copper, metal
Technique: lost w...
Category
Antique Late 19th Century French Art Nouveau Letter Openers
Materials
Bronze, Copper, Metal
Late 20th Century/C. 1970 Silvered Napoleon Empereur Letter Opener by Christofle
By Christofle
Located in North Miami, FL
Late 20th century/circa 1970 silvered Napoleon Empereur letter opener by Christofle
By: Christofle
Material: silver, silver plate, metal, paper
Technique: polished, silvered, metalw...
Category
Late 20th Century French Renaissance Revival Letter Openers
Materials
Silver, Silver Plate, Metal
Early 20th Century Leather and Silvered Metal Cigar Case by Ducas Paris, France
Located in North Miami, FL
Early 20th century Belle Époque faux crocodile leather and silvered metal cigar case with horse decoration by Ducas Paris, France
By: Ducas Paris
Material: metal, silver, leather, f...
Category
Early 20th Century French Belle Époque Tobacco Accessories
Materials
Metal, Silver
Art Déco Persian Warrior Cold-Painted Bronze Sculpture by F. Bergmann, Austria
By Nam Greb, Franz Bergmann
Located in North Miami, FL
1920s Art Déco persian warrior cold-painted bronze sculpture by Franz Bergmann, Austria
By: Franz Bergmann, Nam Greb
Material: bronze, copper, tin, metal, paint
Technique: cast, mol...
Category
Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Metal, Bronze, Copper, Tin
You May Also Like
English Renaissance Curved Brass Sword and Leather Scabbard
Located in Queens, NY
English Renaissance (19th Century) curved sword with brass fluted handle and black leather scabbard.
Condition: Good; Minor losses
Category
Antique 19th Century British Renaissance Arms, Armor and Weapons
Materials
Brass
Indonesian Nias Sword with Carved Wooden Hilt and Brass-Bound Scabbard
Located in NICE, FR
This striking sword from Nias Island, Indonesia features a long single-edged blade paired with its original segmented wooden scabbard, reinforced with alternating brass and dark wood...
Category
Antique Late 19th Century Indonesian Tribal Arms, Armor and Weapons
Materials
Metal, Brass
Sword with Wrought Iron Blade with Traces of Gold on Hilt with Cover Sheath
Located in Marbella, ES
Sword with Wrought Iron Blade with Traces of Gold on Hilt with Leather Cover Sheath
Category
Antique 17th Century Arms, Armor and Weapons
Materials
Gold, Wrought Iron
19th Century African Shona Dagger
Located in Hamilton, Ontario
19th Century dagger from the Shona people of Zimbabwe. It features beautiful carvings, a rich aged patina and a handmade steeped blade.
Category
Antique 1890s Zimbabwean Arms, Armor and Weapons
Materials
Metal
Spanish Wrought Iron Shotgun Bayonet with Hilt and Made in Toledo
Located in Marbella, ES
Spanish Wrought Iron Shotgun Bayonet with Hilt and Made in Toledo.
Category
Mid-20th Century Spanish Arms, Armor and Weapons
Materials
Wrought Iron
Vintage Argentine Knife – 20 cm Blade, Silver-Colored Metal
Located in Madrid, ES
This vintage Argentine knife from the 20th century is a remarkable piece that embodies the craftsmanship and functionality characteristic of traditional Argentine blades. With a sleek design and a substantial blade, this knife is not only a practical tool but also a collectible item for enthusiasts of fine cutlery and Argentine culture.
Key Features:
Authentic Argentine Craftsmanship: This knife showcases the rich heritage of Argentine knife-making, known for its quality and durability. It reflects the traditional styles and techniques used by artisans in the region.
Quality Construction: Made from silver-colored metal, this knife is both visually appealing and sturdy. The materials used ensure longevity and functionality, making it suitable for both display and practical use.
Functional Design: The total dimensions of the knife are 33 cm x 7 cm x 2 cm, with the blade measuring 20 cm. This size provides a comfortable grip and excellent balance, making it ideal for various cutting tasks.
Good Condition: This knife is in good condition, showing minimal wear that adds to its character. It is a perfect addition for collectors or anyone interested in Argentine history and craftsmanship.
Dimensions:
Total Size: 33 cm x 7 cm x 2 cm (approximately 13" x 2.8" x 0.8")
Blade Length: 20 cm (approximately 7.9")
Why Choose This Vintage Argentine Knife?
This antique Argentine...
Category
Vintage 1930s Arms, Armor and Weapons
Materials
Iron













