 Shang bronzesmiths usually worked in foundries outside the cities to make ritual vessels, and sometimes weapons and chariot fittings as well.The bronze vessels were receptacles for storing or serving various solids and liquids used in the performance of sacred ceremonies.Some forms such as the "ku" and "jue" can be very graceful, but the most powerful pieces are the "ding", sometimes described as having an "air of ferocious majesty".