Large Ding

Western Zhou dynasty
Shaanxi History Museum, Xi'an

This large bronze kettle (ding) was last used in cooking the funeral feast of its owner, after which it was interred with the deceased. Sets of bronze vessels, whose number, size, and weight were prescribed by sumptuary laws, were the most prestigious status goods available to rulers and aristocrats during the Shang and Zhou dynasties.

The ding rests on three hollow legs, which elevated it above the cooking fire. The legs were hollow to reduce the weight and cost of the bronze, and to better conduct the heat of cooking. Monster masks (taotie) decorate the neck and legs of the vessel, and loop handles are provided to engage a carrying pole or hooks.