A New Probe Into The Model Of Copper Casting In The Shang Dynasty

This paper,approaches from the technique perspective,tries to contribute to the discussion of a major research topic——the relationship between the artistry of the Shang and Zhou bronzes and their craftsmanship,with new materials and knowledge.The research subjects of this paper are the clay mould and model relics that excavated from Shang bronze foundry in Xiaomintun,Anyang.On the basis of the predecessors,this paper starts with the discussion on the technique of craving motifs directly on low-temperature baked clay,as well as its limitations.By examining the various traces on the clay surfaces,it concludes different methods of making motifs on mould surface and the role that mould plays in motif-making.This paper has reached to substantial conclusions:(1)By analyzing certain features on the clay model pieces,this paper proposes a supposition that most of the model pieces from Xiaomintun foundry are “secondary model”.(2)Base on the analysis of the craving traces on the selected secondary model piec es,the causal relationship between the procedures of repetitively craving and stamping motifs on mould and model and the creation of organized exquisite patterns on the surfaces is attested.This paper challenges the traditional understanding of the relationship between mould and model,which is “model to mould,mould to bronze”.(3)On top of the previous conclusion,this paper differentiates the characteristics and functions of craving motifs on model with craving motifs on mould.Observing through the somatic microscope,the author of this paper states that the various clay pieces such as “stamp model”,“moveable sectional mould”,and “piece mould” which coexist in this site were products of different procedures in the same casting process.(4)The new understanding of the “mould and model relationship” that both the shape and the motif need to be formed through model and mould’s repetitively reproduction of each other has opened a new path in the discussion.Through this new lens,the author states his opinions on the differences between the hollowed secondary models and the solid ones.He also makes statements on horizontal division,purposing its connection with the primary model.This paper believes that through the new understandings on the bronze casting techniques that listed above,it is possible to form a more comprehensive and in-depth explanation on how ancient Chinese craftsmen managed to create bronzes in so many varied styles within the limitation of piece-mould casting technique.