Tripod (Ding)
Unknown Artist
c. 1250–1046 BCE
Medium
bronze
Dimensions
24.5 × 20 cm
Classification
Metalwork
Department
Chinese Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
John L. Severance Fund
Accession Number
1962.281
About this artwork
Animal images in ritual bronzes served as symbolic messengers of the supernatural realms. Among others, the animal mask called taotie emerged as the most potent symbolic form. The formidable mask emanates a powerful presence with an unforgettable stare. It expresses an overwhelming feeling of mystery, representing a transcendent, supernatural concept in ancient ritual art.