The undulating forms of this blade are best interpreted by turning it upside down. With the pommel at the top, the sword can be read as a figure with abstract head. The hilt suggests arms and torso, and the blade becomes the figure’s hips and legs. Empowered by the medicines contained within the pommel, the bearer of this weapon enjoyed considerable prestige, further enhanced by the high aesthetic quality of the blade. The distinctive markings along the blade and handle may well reflect the personal style of an individual artist.