Ceremonial bell with imperial procession, landscape, and mythical creatures in waves
On loan to The Met
This work of art is currently on loan to the museum.This monumental bell exemplifies the sophisticated bronze casting of the Song dynasty and marks the inauguration of archaism in this medium. Its ornamental bands represent a comprehensive vision of the empire. The top three bands depict an imperial procession through the capital city of Bianjing (now Kaifeng, Henan Province). The next register presents a lively landscape symbolizing the empire’s vast territory. Finally, the bottom band depicts the cosmic ocean, with the eight Daoist immortals and mythical sea creatures emerging from turbulent waves. Attributes of the processional paraphernalia and the architectural style of the palace gate indicate that the bell was cast in 1120s.
Artwork Details
- 北宋 銅鹵簿鐘
- Title: Ceremonial bell with imperial procession, landscape, and mythical creatures in waves
- Period: Northern Song dynasty (960–1127)
- Date: 12th century
- Culture: China
- Medium: Copper alloy
- Dimensions: H. 70 7/8 in. (180 cm), Diam. 32 in. (81.3 cm); Wt. 1554.2 lbs (705 kg)
- Classification: Metalwork
- Credit Line: Lent by Liaoning Provincial Museum, Shenyang
- Rights and Reproduction: Photograph courtesy of Liaoning Provincial Museum, Shenyang
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art