Fine Chinese Eating Set (Trousse) Knife Chopsticks

A Chinese eating set (trousse), comprising a knife and chopsticks. This type of sets was very common in China and in all the countries under the Chinese influence from Tibet to Mongolia. It was part of a man formal dress up to the turn of the 20th century and usually accompanied with a variety of accessories like pickle spear, toothpicks, tweezers and the like. Similar sets are found in various sizes and quality.

This fine exemplar has a well forged blade probably laminated. Grain wood grip with silver pommel.  Scabbard is wood covered with skin, silver locket and silver bands. An additional compartment includes silver toothpicks. Ivory chopsticks. A small carved Jade pendant is attached to the scabbard with a red cord.

Blade 7 inches (18 cm), total length 12 inches (32 cm). Very good condition.

For more information on these Chinese trousses see: Arts of Asia, Nov-Dec 1990, pages 156-159