description Da Ke Ding Overview
The Da Ke Ding is a bronze vessel from the Western Zhou dynasty. It’s significant as one of the earliest examples of Chinese writing, featuring an inscription detailing King Wu's bestowal upon the noble Ke. This relic provides valuable insight into early Chinese governance and royal practices. Scholars and historians studying Zhou Dynasty history and early Chinese inscriptions find it particularly relevant.
insights Why this score
Da Ke Ding ranks #154 of 643 in the Relic ranking, behind Royal Game of Ur, ahead of Blood of St. Januarius (Naples Cathedral).
help Da Ke Ding FAQ
What dynasty is the Da Ke Ding from?
The Da Ke Ding dates to the Western Zhou dynasty, which ruled ancient China from approximately 1046 to 771 BCE. It is a large bronze ritual ding vessel, a type used for ceremonial offerings to ancestors.
Where is the Da Ke Ding displayed today?
The Da Ke Ding is housed in the Shanghai Museum and is considered one of the institution's most important holdings. It is classified as a first-class national cultural relic of China.
What is written in the inscription on the Da Ke Ding?
The vessel bears a 290-character inscription recording royal land grants and privileges bestowed upon the nobleman Ke by the Zhou king. These inscriptions are among the most valuable primary sources for understanding Western Zhou political structure, land tenure, and aristocratic culture.
How big is the Da Ke Ding?
The Da Ke Ding stands nearly a meter tall and weighs over 200 kilograms, making it one of the largest surviving Western Zhou bronze vessels. Its sheer scale, combined with its detailed inscription, makes it a uniquely important artifact in Chinese bronze archaeology.
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