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! Here you will find a variety of pieces, including 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. These pieces are all incredibly detailed and intricate, and they tell us a lot about the culture and customs of this period in Chinese history. Come explore these amazing artifacts today and learn more about the Late Western Zhou dynasty!

1. Hu wine vessel of Song

This wine vessel was probably only used for special occasions because it is so big and decorated so nicely. There is a long 152-character inscription on the lid and inside the vessel. The inscription tells about a ceremony where the King of Zhou gave Song, the owner of this vessel, a title of nobility.

2. Mao-kung Ting

This "ting" cauldron has a wide, flared mouth, a linked ring motif decorating the rim, upright handles, and three hoofed feet.

3. Bell of Zong-zhou

This flat oval yong bell has a closed tile shape, with a curved mouth. There are 18 mei bosses on either side of the bell.

4. Pan water vessel of San

This water vessel looks very important and serious. The writing on the inside of the vessel is 350 characters long and tells the story of Zhe's failed attempt to invade the state of San, and how San took over a part of Zhe's land afterwards.

5. Xu food container of Le Ji-xian

Le Ji-xian commissioned a vessel to be cherished by all of their descendants.