China

Zhou dynasty

The Zhou performed religious rituals, used bronze ritual vessels, and practiced divination.

c. 1050–221 B.C.E.

Beginner's Guide

What is the Zhou dynasty?

• Zhou Dynasty (c. 1050–221 B.C.E.), an introduction

Dynasties

Western Zhou dynasty

Western Zhou dynasty

1046–771 B.C.E.

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Thunder, dragon tails, wisps of clouds—the decorations on bronze vessels of this period connect the earthly and the divine.

Da Ke Ding

Square lidded ritual wine container (fangyi)

Eastern Zhou dynasty

Eastern Zhou dynasty

770–256 B.C.E.

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From massive burial chambers and lacquerwares to grand bronze vessels and chime bells, we find splendid and sophisticated evidence of elite life in the Warring States period.

Bell (bo) with birds and dragons

Ambition and luxury: Marquis Yi of the Zeng State

All content | Zhou dynasty

Ritual vessels, burial chambers, and more.

Square lidded ritual wine container (fangyi)

Bell (bo) with birds and dragons

Zhou Dynasty (c. 1050–221 B.C.E.), an introduction

Ambition and luxury: Marquis Yi of the Zeng State

Da Ke Ding

Selected Contributors

Dr. Kristen Loring Brennan

Dr. Kent Cao

Dr. Beth Harris

Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art