Chinese Archaeology: The Two Weeks Volume

Author: Zhang Changshou, Yin Weizhang
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-12-01
Features: From the establishment of the Zhou Dynasty by King Wu of Zhou in 1046 BC after his conquest of the Shang Dynasty to the founding of the Qin Dynasty by Qin Shi Huang in 221 BC, this period is known as the Zhou Dynasty. King Wu of Zhou and King Ping of Zhou respectively established their capitals in Xi'an and Luoyang, leading historians to refer to this era as the Western Zhou and Eastern Zhou. Chinese Archaeology·Zhou Dynasties Volume introduces the series of archaeological excavations and research achievements conducted by Chinese archaeologists on the sites of the two Zhou dynasties during the 20th century. These discoveries have not only filled gaps in historical records but also provided diverse perspectives on the higher historical civilization created during the more than 800 years of the Zhou Dynasty compared to the Shang Dynasty, as well as offering insights into the inevitable trend of social transformation and the transition to feudalism during the Eastern Zhou period. The two Zhou dynasties represent the peak of China's Bronze Age. Among the bronze artifacts, many are extraordinary works, and artificial iron smelting also emerged. Readers can learn about the social, political, and economic conditions of the time from the descriptions of the scale, layout, and unearthed artifacts of the capitals during the two Zhou periods; observe the process of the "ritual system" established by the Duke of Zhou and its decline into "the collapse of rituals and the disintegration of music"; and appreciate the outstanding creativity of ancient people in agriculture, handicrafts, and artistic culture. This further helps readers realize the profound and far-reaching impact of the civilization achievements of the two Zhou dynasties on the development of later civilizations. This volume cites extensive references and covers a wide range of topics, making it an invaluable resource for researchers in archaeology, history, ethnology, art history, cultural relics, and museums, as well as related disciplines.