Zhou dynasty bronzes preserve one of the earliest forms of Chinese writing in their simple, highly pictographic inscriptions
Zhou
This type of Chinese bronze bell is called a bo and was a costly commission in terms of both material and labor—it weighs 140 lbs.
Bell (bo) with birds and dragons
The Zhou shared many cultural similarities with the Shang—they performed similar religious rituals, used bronze ritual vessels, and practiced divination.
Zhou Dynasty (c. 1050–221 B.C.E.), an introduction
Massive burial chambers, gigantic double coffins, grand bronze vessels, and chime bells—the tomb of Marquis Yi.
Ambition and luxury: Marquis Yi of the ...
Not for everyday use, this ritual bronze vessel is significant in function and in heft. It weighs over 400 pounds!
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