Rectangular Cauldron

Arts of Asia

Shang dynasty ( about 1600–1046 BC ), 12th/11th century

China

Unlike most bronze vessels whose shapes were derived from prehistoric ceramic forms, this type of rectangular container was invented by Shang bronze artisans. Each side features a pair of profile birds with long, trailing tailfeathers. The black material in sunken areas of this design contains carbon. This filler is common to many Shang bronzes and seems to have been deliberately applied after casting in order to emphasize the surface decoration.

Status: Currently Off View
Department: Arts of Asia

Title: Rectangular Cauldron
Place: China (Artist's nationality)
Date: Made 1600 BCE–1050 BCE
Medium: Bronze
Dimensions: 17 × 14.2 cm (6 5/8 × 5 5/8 in.)
Credit Line: Lucy Maud Buckingham Collection
Reference Number: 1938.1115
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