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Whereas before, war was characterized as a civilized
contest between aristocratic armies, during the
Warring States Period (475-221 B.C.), war evolved
into the chaotic conflict we know it as today. Kings
and princes were replaced on the battlefield by
infantries lead by military generals. Peasants were
recruited to serve on the front lines. Warfare
intensified, especially in terms of the duration of
campaigns. New arms and armor were invented,
including the halberd and crossbow. Chariots rode
alongside archers outfitted in iron helmets and body
armor. Defensive walls were erected in order to repel
invaders. However, despite the turmoil of the times,
the arts continued to thrive. Bronze casting was
revolutionized by the introduction of the lost-wax
technique, while the alterations of kiln structures
enabled new firing techniques that resulted in fully
developed glazes.
China was perhaps the most civilized culture of the
ancient world. Their science, philosophy, art, and
technology were all years ahead of most other
cultures. One gains an idea of their sophistication
and wealth when viewing this stunning bronze Bian
Hu. Once, long ago, at ceremonial feasts held by the
noble elite, this vessel would have been used to
dispense fine wines. Both the beauty and luxury of
this work implies that it would have been the
possession of the King, or perhaps a close member
of his royal entourage. Quite simply, few people but
the king could afford such a treasure. By far, the
most exquisite feature of this vessel is the stunning,
intricate curvilinear designs incised throughout the
body. Additionally, the sides contain two Tao Tieh
masks depicting stylized dragon heads rendered in
strong relief holding loose ring handles in their
mouths.
A rare feature of this Bian Hu is the incised mouth,
resembling a clove of garlic, and the lid which has
been incised with decorative Tao Tieh masks. It is
believed that this form was introduced in bronze
during this chaotic period in Chinese history known
as the Warring States that followed the demise of the
Zhou Dynasty and precipitated the formation of the
Han. Discovered inside an ancient tomb, this Bian Hu
was treasured as much in life as in the afterworld.
During this era, the Chinese believed that the afterlife
was an extension of our earthly existence. Thus,
important people were often enshrined with their
treasured possessions as well as works specifically
commissioned to be interred. Over the centuries,
this work has acquired a fantastic and varied patina
that further enhances the beauty and texture of the
work.
- (H.671)
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