Objects of the Funerary Cult in the Han Dynasty. Gold and Silver Items. Aesthetics of Gold and Silver in the Han Dynasty

Abstract

The unification of China under the rule of the Han Dynasty and the subsequent prosperity of the state inevitably led to a sharp increase in the production of gold and silver items. The emperors of the Western Han Dynasty often rewarded officials who had served with gold to the extent that cast gold discs and gold bars were included in circulation. Looking at the gold and silver items that archaeologists find in the tombs of the Han period makes one see the superiority of utensils in this era over the items of previous periods both in quantity and in their typology, and possibly in terms of manufacturing complexity. Having become an independent craft, separate from traditional bronze casting, it strongly influenced the art of subsequent Chinese dynasties. Gilding technologies appeared in China as early as the early Zhanguo period. This highly commendable art used in the decoration of bronze, which was densely covered with gold, reached its maturity in the pre-Qin period and gained popularity during the Han Dynasty. Most importantly, in the Han Dynasty, the fine art of decorating with silver and gold reached a new, higher level and, no longer being part of the bronze casting craft, received independent development. Silver utensils of the Han period are found evenly throughout the territory of modern China. Silver caskets, funnel-shaped vessels and many ornaments were found in the tombs of the Jing king, Liu Sheng, in Zhongshan, the Huai king, Liu Xiu, and the Mu king, Liu Chan, in the same city district. Gold and silver vessels are evidence of the development of the art of working with gold and silver. Silver and gold vessels that archaeologists find in the graves of the highest tribal nobility of the Han Dynasty not only speak of the high level of this industry in the Han Dynasty but also testify to a unique culture and help us better understand the society of this time.