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Bronze ritual vessel inscribed with Chinese earliest legal document
Updated: Jun 24, 2024
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Did you know that the earliest known legal document in China is inscribed on a bronze ritual vessel yi (water container) from the Western Zhou Dynasty (c.11th century-771 BC)? This remarkable artifact, often called China’s “Bronze Code”, features 157 Chinese characters etched on its lid and inner walls. The inscription provides invaluable insights into the legal system, punishment norms, litigation procedures and discretionary judgement of the judges during that era.
Unearthed in 1975 in Baoji’s Qishan county, Shaanxi province, the bronze vessel offers a glimpse into the judicial practices 2,800 years ago. Collection: Qishan County Museum.
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