Description
With a wide and shallow basin, tall pedestal, and pair of loop handles, this water vessel presents a sense of reserved dignity. The 350-character inscription on its inside pleasingly compliments the vessel's design. The inscription narrates the state of Zhe's failure to invade the state of San, as well as San's subsequent annexation of a portion of Zhe's land. The text precisely details the land transferred as well as the names and ranks of officials involved in the enforcement of the agreement. The states of San and Zhe were closely linked during the Western Zhou period, including by marriage in times of peace. This vessel was meant to leave a lasting record of San's successful territorial defense and subsequent restitution.