Bronze in National Palace Museum, Late Western Zhou dynasty BC857-828

Welcome to the National Palace Museum's collection of bronze artifacts from the Late Western Zhou dynasty! These artifacts are incredibly important in terms of understanding Chinese culture and history during this period. On display here, you will find the Hu wine vessel of Song, Mao-kung Ting, Bell of Zong-zhou, Pan water vessel of San and Xu food container of Le Ji-xian. Each of these artifacts is unique and tells a different story about life during this time. Come take a look at these incredible artifacts today!

1. Hu wine vessel of Song

This wine vessel was used on special occasions. It is very large and has many layers of decoration, making it look very impressive. The same 152-character inscription can be found on the vessel's lid and inside its body.

2. Mao-kung Ting

King Xuan of Zhou came to the throne and charged his uncle, the Duke of Mao, with governing the domestic and external affairs of state. The King then presented the Duke with official vestments and gifts, and this vessel was cast in order to record the honor given to the Duke for his descendants.

3. Bell of Zong-zhou

This bell has a flat oval shape and is decorated with cloud patterns and twin kui dragon patterns. There is an inscription of 111 characters on the central strip and soundbow.

4. Pan water vessel of San

This water vessel presents a sense of reserved dignity. The inscription on the inside of the vessel is 350 characters long and describes the state of Zhe's failure to invade the state of San, as well as San's subsequent annexation of a portion of Zhe's land.

5. Xu food container of Le Ji-xian

The vessel was commissioned by Le Ji-xian to be cherished by all descendants.