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Ritual bell (Wangsun Yizhe yongzhong)
Ritual bell (Wangsun Yizhe yongzhong)

Ritual bell (Wangsun Yizhe yongzhong)

Place of OriginChina
Dateapprox. 550 BCE
PeriodSpring and Autumn period (770–476 BCE)
CultureChu culture
MaterialsBronze
DimensionsH. 23 in x W. 11 in x D. 8 3/4 in, H. 58.4 cm x W. 27.9 cm x D. 22.2 cm
Credit LineThe Avery Brundage Collection
Object numberB60S552
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsMetal Arts
On View
On view
LocationGallery 14
InscribedThe 113-character inscription on the outside of this bell indicates that it was cast on behalf of Wangsun Yizhe, a member of the ruling family of the southern kingdom of Chu. More than half of this inscription is identical to that on a set of twenty-six bells from a Chu tomb datable to around 550 BCE. It provides insight into the use and significance of these musical instruments. An approximate translation: It was in the first month, during the new moon, on the day dinghai that Wangsun Yizhe selected these auspicious metals and from them made [this] harmonious [set of] bell[s]. To the end [may it be] high pitched and uplifting; from the first peal may it resound. When using it to present sacrifices [in the rites of] filial piety to our august ancestor, dead father Wen, or when using it to pray for longevity, we will then with reverence walk slowly in awe of its great beat. Austere, wise, sagely, and martial, we shall be kind with our governing virtue, pious with majestic decorum, and shall give instruction as though unfed [unpaid]. Ring and ring the harmonious bell. Use it while feasting to bring about happiness. Use it so that the music and celebration might entertain our fathers and elder brothers and reach our assistants and companions. We ponder [it] in our hearts. [May it] stretch into eternity our virtue and harmoniously pacify the people. We shall display it for ten days in the kingdom and [let it] resound far and wide. May for ten thousand years there be no deceit. May the generations number ten thousand, and the grandsons' sons forever treasure and strike it.
More Information
The 113-character inscription on the outside of this bell indicates that it was cast on behalf of Wangsun Yizhe, a prince of the southern state of Chu. More than half of this inscription is identical to that on a set of twenty-six bells from a Chu tomb datable to around 550 BCE. This bell provides insight into the use and significance of these musical instruments. Because of their elliptical circumference, each bell can produce two distinct notes when struck with a wooden mallet.