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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.
This bronze hu would have functioned as a ritual
container for the storage and transport of
sumptuous wines. The surface of the body and
base has been divided into horizontal bands that
are decorated with intricate incised designs of
abstract swirling forms. The neck features similar
decoration, however divided into elongated
triangular frames. Two decorative Tao Tieh mask
handles have been attached to the lower
shoulder of the hu. These stylized animals
represent a type of dragon found in Chinese
mythology. Their abstracted representation
demonstrates, as well as the incised patterns, the
influence of previous styles such as the Zhou
Dynasty. A lid caps this hu, embellished with
similar incised motif and crowned by three
stylized representations of zoomorphic horned
creatures that might represent oxen or dragons.
Over the ages, the bronze has acquired a
fabulous patina of alternating green and
turquoise hues, adding both delightful colors and
pleasing textures to this otherwise sparsely
adorned vessel. Such a work, forged from
bronze, would have been the treasured
possession of an elite member of the social
hierarchy. Quite simply, only a court noble or
wealthy merchant could afford such a luxury.
Although this vessel would have functioned as a
wine container in life, it was found discovered
buried in a tomb. A symbol for the bountiful
pleasures of life, for drinking and feasting, this
hu would have represented the joys to be
experienced in the afterlife and the feasts and
celebrations yet to come. Today, this vessel is
not only a gorgeous work of art, treasured for its
history and rarity; but also a stunning reminder
of the richness and luxury of ancient China, both
in this world and the next.
- (H.985)
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