Bronze Age in China

Front

What period marks the beginning of the Bronze Age in China?

Back

Around 2000 B.C.

Front

What civilization emerged along the Yellow River in Henan Province during the Bronze Age?

Back

The Shang dynasty.

Front

What was the time frame of the Shang dynasty?

Back

Approximately 1600-1050 B.C.

Front

Who conquered the Shang dynasty?

Back

The Zhou people.

Front

What are the two phases of the Zhou dynasty?

Back

Western Zhou (ca. 1046-771 B.C.) and Eastern Zhou (771-256 B.C.).

Front

What significant event occurred in 221 B.C. during the Warring States period?

Back

The unification of China under the Qin.

Front

What is the primary material used in the Bronze Age of China?

Back

Bronze, an alloy of copper and tin.

Front

What distinctive image is commonly found on Shang-dynasty bronze vessels?

Back

The taotie.

Front

What are the primary features of a taotie mask?

Back

A prominent pair of eyes, a nose, and often jaws, fangs, horns, ears, and eyebrows.

Front

What other motifs were common on Shang ritual bronze vessels?

Back

Dragons, birds, bovine creatures, and geometric patterns.