Replica of Si Mu Wu Ding, detail.
<p>Shang Dynasty, 14th-11th century BC. 
133x110x79 cm, 832.84 kg. 
</p><p>The Si Mu Wu Ding is the largest and heaviest bronze ware ever found in China. Accidentally discovered by local farmers in Anyang on March 19th, 1939, it is generally considered as one of the most symbolic national treasures of China. The original piece is now stored in National Museum of China in Beijing, and closed to public.
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In Chinese history and culture, possession of an Ding is often associated with power and dominion over the whole country. Consequently a Ding as ancient and significant as the Si Mu Wu Ding became the most highly sought after artifact by the Japanese occupational force, the Nationalists and the Communists alike during WWII and the following civil war.
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