On the source “composition” of the bronze vessels in the burials of the Yinxu site

Bronze vessels from burials at the Yinxu site exhibit distinct 'source compositions,' revealing two primary types: single-sourced and multiple-sourced. This discovery challenges traditional analyses focused on 'assemblages' by emphasizing the origin, distribution, and social context of bronzes. The study analyzed key burials, including M303 at Dasikong, M1713 in the West Zone, Fu Hao's tomb, and M1046 at Liujiazhuang Locus North, demonstrating that multiple-sourced compositions vary based on social backgrounds and relationships among burial occupants. This approach offers new insights into the social dynamics and craftsmanship of Bronze Age societies.

Tang, Y. (2020). On the source “composition” of the bronze vessels in the burials of the Yinxu site. Chinese Archaeology, 20(1), 139–150. https://doi.org/10.1515/char-2020-0012