Crafts and Artisans
 | Ram's head on
bronze ritual vessel |
Jade and bronze were the most prized materials in Ancient China. Jade was believed to have magical properties and to preserve the dead.
Bronze was used to make ritual vessels, pots, bells, mirrors and weapons. They developed a unique way of casting bronze so that the object could be ornately decorated.
The ancient Chinese kept the production of silk secret for hundreds of years. Their silk became very popular all over the world.
Ceramic production had reached a very advanced stage by the Shang dynasty. The design of the Chinese kilns meant that high and even temperatures could be reached throughout. This meant that it was possible to make ceramics of very high quality.
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