Chinese swordsmanship
Sword-sharpening picture (礪劍圖) by Huang Ji, c. 15th century | |
| Also known as | jianshu |
|---|---|
| Focus | The art of fighting with various types of swords |
| Country of origin | Western Zhou |
| Famous practitioners | Tai-chi Swords, Emei Swords, Wudang Swords |
Chinese swordsmanship, also known as jianshu, refers to various types of swordsmanship native to China and is a part of Chinese martial arts practice. Chinese swordsmanship dates back over two thousand years. Chinese swordsmanship, integral to both traditional Chinese culture and martial arts, encompasses facets of Zen and philosophy, reflecting moral and physical unity within Chinese martial arts, while also pervading ancient Chinese culture, philosophy, and art.
Chinese swordsmanship is now widely practiced worldwide and respected for its effectiveness as a martial art and its cultural and aesthetic value. This martial art symbolises Chinese tradition and philosophical wisdom, linking ancient traditions with modern practices in martial arts communities worldwide.