New research has revealed that one of the most distinctive bronze artefacts unearthed at China’s Sanxingdui archaeological site was assembled from components made in different regions and at different times, offering fresh evidence of ancient trade networks and advanced metalworking techniques.
The findings, published by the Sichuan Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology, conclude that the famous bronze kneeling figure discovered at Sanxingdui in Guanghan, Sichuan Province, was not originally created as a single object.
Researchers found that the artefact comprises two separate elements: a bronze ritual vessel, known as a zong, mounted above a kneeling human figure. Scientific analysis showed notable differences between the two components despite their being buried together.
The human figure exhibited significantly greater corrosion than the zong, while laboratory testing identified substantial differences in their metal composition and the geological origin of the ores used to produce them.
The study also found that the human figure itself was cast from several separate sections. Its base was made from almost pure copper, a design choice researchers believe was intended to improve the structure’s strength and stability.
One of the strongest indications that the artefact was assembled after manufacture came from the base of the zong. Researchers discovered that around one-third of its base had been deliberately shaved away before it was attached to the kneeling figure.
Experts say that if both elements had originally been designed as a single object, they could have been cast together to the required dimensions, eliminating the need for such modifications. Instead, the evidence suggests the ritual vessel was produced independently, transported to Sanxingdui and later adapted before being joined to the bronze figure.
The discovery sheds new light on the technological capabilities of the ancient Shu civilisation, demonstrating sophisticated bronze-working and joining techniques.
Researchers also say the findings provide further evidence that Sanxingdui had cultural and commercial connections to other parts of ancient China, including the Central Plains, and that finished bronze objects and materials were probably moving from one place to another.
The Sanxingdui archaeological site, one of China’s most important Bronze Age discoveries, has produced thousands of artefacts that have reshaped our perspective on the ancient Shu kingdom and its links with neighbouring civilisations.
Sources : Sichuan Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology
