Back to list Ding cauldron of Shi Tang Fu, Mid Western Zhou dynasty

Description

This ding cauldron has a wide mouth, flat angled rim, upright handles, round base, sagging belly, and three hoofed legs. The handles of the vessel are decorated with two rings of string patterns, and the patterns on the vessel body are divided into two sections. Small regardant phoenixes with drooping crowns and long tails adorn the section just below the rim, while large regardant phoenixes with drooping crowns and curled feathers adorn the belly. The patterns demonstrate left and right symmetry, creating a steady sense of balanced aesthetics. The legs are decorated with animal mask patterns. The inner walls of the vessel are inscribed with 54 characters in 8 columns.