- Koguryo and Balhae
- Susahn-ri Tomb
Koguryo and Balhae
| Title | Eastern Wall of the Entrance Passage - Hwandudaedo | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Eastern Wall of the Entrance Passage - Hwandudaedo
This is a detailed view of the gatekeeper’s sword depicted on the eastern wall of the entrance passage in Susahn-ri Tomb. In general, Koguryo-era long swords were approximately 3 ft. (1 m) in length. The sword held by this gatekeeper is known as a Hwandudaedo, or ring-pommel sword.
A strap bound the pommel and wrist together to prevent the sword from falling should the swordsman lose grip during battle. Some pommels were adorned with a three-leaf decoration while others were plain. The Hwandudaedo was also prevalent in Silla, and their swords featured more ornate dragon or auspicious animal decorations.
While some Hwandudaedos were curved similar to a scimitar, the sword in the image is straight-blade type. The contrasting white edge and black back of the blade effectively convey the appearance of a sharp sword.