Bronze Li Cauldron of Shijin

This ancient li cauldron is a family heirloom that has been excellently preserved. The black surface is polished with wax. It has a trumpeting mouth with a folded edge, a contracted neck, side handles, ridges on its round belly, and hoof-shaped feet. Various patterns embellish the surface of the vessel. The body shows meandering patterns as a background and six large kui-dragon designs cast in relief as the main patterning. The neck features meandering curves of a two-headed kui dragon. The exterior and interior of the side ears are decorated with double-ring patterns.
The interior surface includes an inscription of twenty-nine characters carved in five lines. This text records that on the first auspicious day of the ninth month, the gengyin day, Shijin cast this great li cauldron for his late parents and hoped that his descendants could use and cherish it forever. The cauldron is magnificently modeled. As a significant ritual vessel, the large animal-shaped designs portray motion in the stillness of the work and reflect a solemn spirit. Increasing its priceless value as a national treasure, this vessel is the largest known work of its type.

view of the item from one side