Although this ding shares features and patterns with other bronze vessels from the Eastern Zhou dynasty excavated in Shanxi province, the design on the lid makes this work rather unusual. Centered on the lid is a low-relief figure of a feline, strongly curled to fit its circular format. Its granulated body, wrenching claws, and striated haunches are set against a ground pattern of irregular meander s. Encircling the feline is a zone occupied by two types of dragons, both with bodies composed of two parallel ribbons.
Accession Number
S0050a, b
Format
decorative arts; metalwork (visual works)
Culture
Chinese (culture or style)
Genre
Funerary art
Origin Information
Probably Shanxi province, China
Date
771-476 B.C.E.
Physical Description
1 ritual vessel ; h. 9 5/8 x W. 9 1/4 in. (24.2 x 23.4 cm)
Note (Period)
Eastern Zhou dynasty, middle Spring & Autumn period