A legendary bronze royal sword repatriated from Japan after years overseas made its public debut in Guangzhou on June 13, coinciding with China's Cultural and Natural Heritage Day.
The precious cultural relic, called the Sword of "Zhu Ji Yu Shi, King of the Yue", dates back more than 2,400 years. It is now permanently housed at the Grandview Museum of Chinese Civilization inside Grandview Mall in Tianhe District, Guangzhou, offering visitors valuable insights into ancient China's bronze civilization.
The sword belonged to Zhuji Yushi, the fourth monarch of the ancient Yue State, a powerful regional regime in southern China over 2,000 years ago. Historical records describe Yue as a formidable power that held sway over a vast area of southern China at its peak.
The sword was previously held in a private collection in Japan and repatriated to China after the museum purchased it for HK$5.16 million at the China Guardian Hong Kong Spring Auctions 2026 in April.
Measuring 53.5 centimeters in total length, the artifact is recognized as one of the best-preserved swords of its kind discovered to date.
The blade bears a subtle gradient of yellow and cyan patina formed over thousands of years. Its handguard is inlaid with turquoise and carved with ancient decorative inscriptions typical of southern Chinese kingdoms of that era.
The sword's uniquely designed pommel, adorned with seven concentric circles and swallowtail-shaped ray patterns symbolizing ancient sun worship, is extremely rare among surviving bronze weapons.
Royal swords of the ancient Yue State stand as an integral part of ancient Chinese bronze culture, representing the pinnacle of Chinese metalworking technology during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States Periods (770-221 BC).
These exclusive arms, once owned by successive Yue monarchs, are hailed as top treasures in major museums worldwid. They also provide valuable first-hand materials for research into ancient Chinese military development and sophisticated bronze weapon craftsmanship.
To mark the sword's debut, the Grandview Museum of Chinese Civilization has launched a series of related cultural activities for visitors of all ages to experience the charm of thousands of years of Chinese civilization and appreciate the value of China's precious cultural heritage.
Reporter | Huang Xinyi
Photo | Huang Xinyi, Grandview Mall
