Bronze Gui

Gui was a kind of food container. When used as ritual vessel, the number of Gui that a person could use was related to his social status. Gui were often used in a group of an even number while another kind of ritual vessel, Ding, were used in a group of an odd number. Only the supreme ruler at the time could enjoy the maximum number of vessels being used together, which is nine Ding and eight Gui.

This rounded-shaped Gui is covred in decorative patterns. It is settled on a square base which is supported by four straight feet. On the lid of the Gui there is a button in the shape of five-petal lotus. Around the lid thre are three beast-shaped buckle that fix the lid to the Gui. On each side of the Gui there is a dragon-shaped handle. This Gui was made with other seven Gui and was used with nine Bronze Ding, suggesting the supreme status of the tomb owner. They were put in group in the middle chamber of the tomb, as if they were still ready to be used by the Marquis.