Plaque in the shape of a horse-drawn chariot
The horse-drawn chariot was introduced to China from the West in the second millennium BCE, likely through the nomadic peoples of the Eurasian steppes. During the Shang and Zhou dynasties (about 1600–256 BCE), the vehicle served not only as a commanding officer’s transport in battle but also a symbol of elite prestige. The number of chariots a state possessed was a key measure of its military power. In this early chariot representation, each component is visualized in profile or from above.
Artwork Details
- 公元前8–7世紀 馬車紋青銅飾件
- Title: Plaque in the shape of a horse-drawn chariot
- Date: 8th–7th century BCE
- Culture: Northeast China
- Medium: Bronze
- Dimensions: H. 4 in. (10.2 cm); W. 3 3/4 in. ( 9.5 cm)
- Classification: Metalwork
- Credit Line: Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Eugene V. Thaw, 2002
- Object Number: 2002.201.12
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
More Artwork
A slider containing 5 items.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
8th–7th century BCE
1st century BCE
8th century BCE
late 9th–early 8th century BCE
4th–3rd century BCE
Research Resources
The Met provides unparalleled resources for research and welcomes an international community of students and scholars. The Met's Open Access API is where creators and researchers can connect to the The Met collection. Open Access data and public domain images are available for unrestricted commercial and noncommercial use without permission or fee.
To request images under copyright and other restrictions, please use this Image Request form.
Feedback
We continue to research and examine historical and cultural context for objects in The Met collection. If you have comments or questions about this object record, please contact us using the form below. The Museum looks forward to receiving your comments.