Three iconic swords from Chinese history — Longyuan, Tai'a, and Gongbu — have been recreated in Longquan county-level city in Lishui, Zhejiang province, reviving their legendary status after over 2,500 years.

This achievement was announced at a historical sword reproduction evaluation event held in Longquan, the birthplace of these famed blades.

The art of forging Longquan swords dates back to the Spring and Autumn Period (771-476 BC). Master swordsmith Ou Yezi crafted the Longyuan, Tai'a, and Gongbu swords, establishing a legacy that would shape China's iron weaponry. Despite their fame, no original artifacts of these swords have survived, leaving only historical texts and cultural lore as references.

To bridge this historical gap, Longquan launched a project to recreate these legendary swords. Local swordsmiths and artisans, drawing on their expertise and extensive research, crafted nine prototypes. They analyzed historical texts, studied archaeological artifacts from the era, and mastered ancient forging techniques to ensure authenticity.

A panel of experts evaluated the submissions based on three criteria: adherence to historical descriptions, reflection of the era's aesthetic and cultural context, and creative expression of the swords' legendary essence. After rigorous review, the Longyuan, Tai'a, and Gongbu were selected as the most faithful representations.

The three swords will be displayed in the new "Longquan Sword Museum", set to open soon, where they will feature in the permanent historical exhibition. This initiative is expected to draw attention to Longquan's rich heritage, promoting the art and legacy of Chinese sword-making to a broader audience.