China’s Bronze Age began with the Shang Dynasty some 4,000 years ago. The following Shang Dynasty was to be judged by the magnificent bronze-ware from the period, that have been discovered, which shows it was a time of considerable prosperity. It is evident at the Yin Ruins, Yin being the Shang capital. The site close to today’s city of Yin Xu 500km south of Beijing contains the only fully intact tomb of a member of the Shang royal family. The tomb of Fu Hao has yielded almost 500 pieces of exquisite bronze ware including some vessels, the like of which had never been seen before, however the discovery left the archeologist wondering where had all the copper come from? Find out now in this program of Chinese Civilizations. Chinese Civilizations sets out to illustrate the evolution of Chinese Civilization through an investigation of archeological discoveries, historical sites and cultural relics. In the course of this investigation, it will reflect the enduring desire for self-improvement and social commitment that are a feature of the Chinese nation.
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