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 pieces were crafted by some of the most talented artisans of their time and provide us with a unique insight into the culture and customs of this period. You will find Hu wine vessels of Song, Mao-kung Tings, Bells of Zong-zhou, Pan water vessels of San and Xu food containers of Le Ji-xian. Each of these pieces is intricately decorated and has its own unique story to tell. Come explore these incredible artifacts today and learn more about the history of the Late Western Zhou dynasty!

1. Hu wine vessel of Song

This wine vessel would have been used for important occasions. It is very large and has multiple layers of decoration, making it look very powerful and dynamic. 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 was anxious to see the country thrive. He charged his uncle, the Duke of Mao, with governing the domestic and external affairs of state, big and small.

3. Bell of Zong-zhou

This bell is oval-shaped and has a closed tile shape. There are 18 mei bosses on either side of the bell.

4. Pan water vessel of San

The inscription on the inside of the water vessel is 350 characters long. The inscription details the failed invasion of the state of Zhe by the state of San, and 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 forever by all future generations.