Mao Kung ting

Late Western Chou dynasty, ca. 9th-8th century B.C.
Height: 53.8 cm Mouth diameter: 47.9 cm Weight: 34705 g

The hemispherical' howl is supported by three cabriole legs. The decor consists of one band below the rim filled with large scale-patterns alternating with heart-shaped patterns.
This precious vessel gains its fame from the long inscription of 500 characters on the inside surface of the vessel. The contents of the inscription records that when Hsuan Wang first ascended to the throne, he appointed the Duke of Mao Prime Minister, in order that the Duke of Mao might aid in the reform of the Chou government. Because of his gratitude for the king's great favor, and as a document for his heirs, Duke Mao had this precious ring cast.

Click here for a larger picture
(image size between 100k - 300K)
and use the [BACK] Function key back to this page