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Ruler

Eastern Han dynasty (25–220)
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
The Han government adopted the measurement system of the Qin. The basic unit for length, or chi, equaled approximately 9 inches, or 23 centimeters. Known examples vary slightly in length, from 21.7 to 24.1 centimeters. At the time of its discovery, the present example was more than eight-tenths intact, indicating that it was originally 23.4 centimeters long. Generally, rulers of the Eastern Han period were slightly longer, and the reason for this change remains unknown.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 东汉 铜尺
  • Title: Ruler
  • Period: Eastern Han dynasty (25–220)
  • Culture: China
  • Medium: Bronze
  • Dimensions: W. 1/2 in. (1.2 cm); L. 6 5/16 in. (16 cm)
  • Classification: Metalwork
  • Credit Line: Lent by Gansu Provincial Museum
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art