A Silver Phoenix Guom
Full Description:
This unusual and fine 19th century Vietnamese guom sword has a silver guard which depicts a resplendent mythical phoenix with its wings functioning as a hand guard, and the tail forming a knuckle bow, the end being held in the mouth of lion whose head, in silver, sits as a pommel on the top of buffalo horn grip.
The sturdy and high-quality blade is a nice change from other guom, which are often fitted with flimsy and low quality blades. It is decorated with traditional Vietnamese floral decoration. The forte has a silver ferrule which is commonly known in Chinese as tunkou, which was originally shaped as a dragon’s mouth, but was more stylistically shaped in later periods.
The heavy scabbard is crafted from two pieces of hardwood, with mother-of-pearl inlay depicting floral vines and squirrels. Silver scabbard mounts are embossed, with a stippled background, depicting a cockerel, cranes, and a parrot, surrounded with floral motives and foliage. Small suspension rings are attached to the two upper fittings.
The fine workmanship and materials suggest this sword was made for a high-ranking official or man of considerable wealth and status. The unusual phoenix design feature is, as yet, unexampled; perhaps it was made as a special commission for an occasion such as the announcement of a new emperor.
The sword is mounted horizontally on a custom-made display stand.