Bronze Ding (Tripod Cauldron)

⏳ Late Shang Dynasty (c. 1300-1046 BCE) 🔨 Bronze 📏 Height: 45cm, Diameter: 38cm

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📝 Artifact Description

This is a highly valuable bronze vessel with regular shape and excellent casting quality. The body is decorated with intricate taotie patterns and cloud-thunder patterns, with clear lines and distinct layers. The legs are sturdy and powerful, the handles are symmetrical, and the overall shape is solemn and dignified, representing the highest level of Shang Dynasty bronze casting craftsmanship.

There are three-character inscriptions on the inner wall, identified as “Fu Yi” (Father Yi), indicating that this ding was made for sacrificial ceremonies to Father Yi. The preservation condition is good, with some patina but overall structural integrity, making it an important artifact for studying Shang Dynasty bronze culture and ritual systems.

📜 Historical Context

This ding was excavated from the Yinxu site in Anyang, Henan, and is a typical ritual vessel from the late Shang Dynasty. In ancient China, ding were not only cooking vessels but also symbols of power and status, often used in important ceremonies and sacrifices.

⭐ Significance

This ding features a solemn shape and exquisite decorations, demonstrating the advanced bronze casting technology of the Shang Dynasty. The taotie (monster mask) patterns and cloud-thunder patterns on the belly are characteristic of Shang Dynasty art style, providing important material for studying Shang ritual systems and social structure.

🏛️ Collection Information

Collection: Turin Polytechnic University Archaeological Collection

Accession Number: TPU-AC-2023-001

Acquisition Date: 2023