taibao

With our podcast, we aim to provide insight into the current trends of modern China, allowing you to clearly see what's happening today through a historical lens.

Today we'll talk about the Taibao Ding, a remarkable bronze vessel from the early Zhou dynasty, whose story reveals the origins of the ancient state of Yan, the struggles of a frontier kingdom that survived for more than eight centuries, and the early historical roots of the city that would eventually become modern Beijing.

Among the famous seven warring states of ancient China: Qi, Chu, Yan, Han, Zhao, Wei, and Qin, most people easily recall the powerful states.

Qin eventually unified China.

How did a relatively weak state like Yan manage to endure for so long? One key reason was its prestigious origin.

The founding family of Yan came from the highest ranks of the early Zhou political elite.

A remarkable bronze artifact preserved today quietly tells the story of this noble beginning, the Taibao Ding.

Visitors to the Tianjin Museum will notice this solemn vessel.