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The Bronze-Casting Revolution and the Ritual Vessel Set

This chapter analyzes bronze-casting technology, noting that the Erlitou phase is transitional rather than representative of the beginning of bronze-casting. Through analysis of the samples of bronze, slag and mold, the study focuses on production techniques and the evolution of the composition of bronzes, beginning with an initial high copper content to a bronze alloy that gradually stabilizes. Evidence for a bronze workshop, how bronze is melted, and the lack of smelting are reviewed, noting that the source of copper, tin, and lead still needs further study. The formation of the independent Chinese bronze-working tradition appears in the use of the piece-mold casting process. This technical process and philosophical construct, are very different from the technical tradition of ancient Mesopotamia or in the ancient Egyptian region where designs were made after the bronze wares were formed. Bronze production during the Erlitou period shows a high level of organization, indicating that this phase of working bronze follows an earlier and probably longer period of development.