Arts of Asia – Shang
1523 B.C. - 1028 B.C.

Pronunciation: "shahng"

Their cast-bronze weapons gave Shang kings military might. Eventually, the same material was cast as vessels bearing the t’ao-t’ie* (monster) mask motif. These objects, often inscribed with the names and titles of clans and rulers, were buried in their owners’ tombs. Jade objects increased in religious significance. Woven silk, glazed ceramics, and lacquerware first appeared in the Shang.

*Pronounced: TOW (as in "tower") - TYUH (rhymes with "the")

Appliqué in the form of a T'ao T'ieh Mask

Axe Scepter

Fang I (Ritual Wine Vessel)

Dagger: Ko (Dagger Axe)

Tripod Ritual Vessel