Chime Bell with Design of Beast Mask

Unearthed at vassal state cemetary of Guo State, Western Zhou Dynasty(ca. 1046--771 B.C.E)

The set of chime bells share the identical design, but a different size. The largest two pieces are one pair, the rest four smaller ones are similar in pattern and size. Of an oval shape, this set of bells are flat in the top, surmounted by a semicircle knob, an arched edge at the bottom, conical clapper inside, and beast mask on the surface. As the embodiment of the culture of rite and music in the Western Zhou period, bronze music instruments are somewhat indications of politics, economy, culture, and folk customs of the time.