Massive! Chinese Dao Executioners sword 19th century

An enormous Chinese Dao two-handed sword of 19th century date or earlier.This example is the largest we’ve yet seen ( please check measurements at end of text), possibly an executioners weapons but quite possibly a genuine fighting weapon, the balance and weight of the thick steel blade could have been handled easily by one trained to use it. The long handle shows the blade has a thick steel tang which runs right through the rivetted wood grip to form a large ring at the pommel end. The guard is of extremely thick heavy brass, in the typical ‘tsuba’ round cupped form. The blade is thick, sharp and clearly made for use. Wonderful patina throughout, uncleaned and in magnificent condition, a true collectors item. Overall length 59 inches, the blade 29 inches long!!! far east