Ding

CultureChinese
Titles
  • Ding
  • Tripod Ritual Vessel
Date13th century BC
PlaceChina
MediumBronze
Dimensions6 7/8 × 5 1/2 × 5 1/4 in. (17.5 × 14 × 13.3 cm)
Credit LineMuseum purchase funded by the Friends of Asian Art, Nancy C. Allen, the Patrick Welder Robinson Charitable Trust, Drs. Ellin and Robert G. Grossman, Barbara E. Butler, Marjorie G. Horning, Mr. and Mrs. Meredith J. Long, Milton D. Rosenau, Jr. and Dr. Ellen R. Gritz, and Mr. and Mrs. Philip J. John, Jr.
Object number2007.747
Current Location
The Caroline Wiess Law Building
109M Jones Galleries
Exposé

Explore Further

Department
Asian Art
Object Type
Description

This small three-legged Chinese vessel, called a li, is covered with an animal-like mask motif that features horns, ears, eyebrows, and a prominent pair of eyes.


The li is part of an artistic tradition that can be traced back to Neolithic times. Early bronze vessels such as this one were primarily used to hold wine during ritual feasts honoring a family's ancestors. Eventually, vessels like the li were used to hold food as well.


The motif on the surface of this vessel is a commonly called taotie.  Though taotie appeared frequently on bronzes of the Shang period (16th to mid-11th century B.C.), the significance of this imagery remains unknown.   Experts have suggested that taotie are symbolic of the spirits of ancestors and supernatural protectors, or mythical beasts. Although they tended to follow a general form, the appearance and specific components of taotie masks varied by period and place of production.


ProvenanceResearch Ongoing

Cataloguing data may change with further research.

If you have questions about this work of art or the MFAH Online Collection please contact us.

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12th century BC
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