Work

Research on tin-covered clay ritual vessels from Shijia Cemetery in Gansu Province, China

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: More than one hundred tin-covered clay ritual vessels unearthed from the Shijia Cemetery have been dated to the Spring and Autumn period. Multi-method analyses confirm a production process involving molding and drying of the clay body, followed by physical adhesion of pre-formed tin or lead-tin alloy foils to the clay body’s surface. Distinct from traditional bronze or pottery ritual vessels, such artifacts not only reflect an innovative application of tin to clay ritual vessels during this period but also establish a novel technical approach for ritual production and possess significant archaeological value. The origin, production motivations, and technical characteristics of these objects require further systematic investigation.

Source: npj Heritage Science

DOI: 10.1038/s40494-025-02058-2

Authors: Qiangbing Wei, Yanxiang Li, Jianli Chen, Yongan Wang, Feng Sun, Manxiu Zhang

Institutions: Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Peking University, Zhengzhou University

Language: English

Topic: Metallurgy and Cultural Artifacts

Subfield: Archeology

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Funders: University of Science and Technology Beijing, National Social Science Fund of China

Award: G8130828086