Adam's FINE ASIAN ART November 18 2024

241 The increasing influence of Western capitalism posed a threat to the independence of Asian countries, significantly im- pacting Minh Mang’s diplomatic stance towards Western nations. Between 1839 and 1840, Emperor Minh Mạng shifted his foreign policy in response to changes in both domestic and international contexts, particularly after witnessing the Opium War in China. Realizing that his anti-Western, isolationist stance, particularly regarding Catholicism, was no longer sufficient, Minh Mạng began exploring diplomatic cooperation with Western nations. He sent missions to France and En- gland in hopes of establishing formal relations. This sword, collaboratively crafted by Germany and Vietnam, serves as a significant historical artifact that bears witness to the pivotal shift in Minh Mạng’s foreign policy between 1839 and 1840 In early 2000’s, French Colonel Pierre Le Lann purchased this sword in very poor condition, he recalled: “the sword was completely black, possibly from being hung above a fireplace in a French castle for a long time, causing it to become smoke-stained. When I began cleaning and polishing it, I was shocked to see the golden dragon head emerge.” Colonel Le Lann was born in 1937, he is a military officer whose exemplary career has left a mark on the history of the French army. He began his career as a non-commissioned officer before being deployed to Algeria, where he actively participated in military operations. His service in this conflict, as well as in Central Africa, was highly successful, earning him several decorations and commendations for his courage and determination. Passionate about military history from a young age, Pierre LeLann began collecting at the age of 15. He started with the Napoleonic era and expanded through various themes before broadening his interest to oriental weapons. His collection, rich and varied, reflects his knowledge and passion for military art. Each piece in his collection is carefully chosen, combin- ing rarity, beauty, and quality. Recognized both for his field commitment and his expertise in ancient weaponry, Colonel Lelann embodies military excellence and historical knowledge. The sword is inscribed with the specific weight of the gold used: 8 taels (8x37g), 7 maces (7x3.12g), and 7 candareens (7x0.375g). After converting these ancient Asian weight units, the total weight closely matches the 350g recorded by the colonel after disassembling and weighing each part of the sword during cleaning. This consistency highlights the precision and meticulous craftsmanship of the Nguyễn dynasty’s goldsmiths in the royal court. Special thanks to Mr. Trần Đình Long Vân for his research and Vietnamese translation to military expert Emmanuel Delgado for his study of the blade to independent Vietnamese art historian Mr. Philippe Truong for his research and advice to Chinese ancient weapon specialist Mr. Wang Hui for his study and research.