In addition to oracle bone inscriptions, bronze ware marked by fine craftsmanship and large variety were unearthed at Yin Xu, highlighting an advanced bronze civilization in the Shang Dynasty.

Si Mu Wu Ding

This vessel unearthed from Yin Xu is called Si Mu Wu Ding. It’s 133 cm tall, and weighs over 800 kilograms. This is the largest bronze ancient relic unearthed in China, and now the original is collected in the National Museum in Beijing.

Ding was used in ancient China as cooking utensils. Initially they were made of clay, but as metallurgy emerged and developed, bronze was used instead at the end of the Shang Dynasty. By that time, Ding became a sacrificial vessel symbolizing the owners' power and wealth.

Normally, Ding is round and has three legs. The special rectangular shape shows this Ding has very high status. Inside the Ding is engraved the inscription "Si Mu Wu", indicating the Ding is made for a king’s mother named Wu. The Si Mu Wu Ding is decorated with various motifs. On both ears, two tigers are holding a human head. The relief of Kui (a one-legged mythical animal) was carved on four sides of the Ding. The animal figures are portrayed with artistic exaggeration and create a ferocious, mysterious and dignified mood.

The Si Mu Wu Rectangle Ding reveals a high level of casting technique and artistry said to be the most refined of the Shang Dynasty. Thousands of bronze wares have also been unearthed at Yin Xu, most of which were weapons and vessels used at sacrificial rituals.