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Question

The visual culture of Shang Dynasty China emerges from a web of interaction between royal authority, the divine, ancestral spirits and ritual practice. First off, describe the use of oracle bones in the Shang dynasty. How do these objects become a visual representation of royal authority? Why are they such important historical documents?

In your outside reading, Dr. Chaffin describes the royal consort Fu Hao a number of ways, but perhaps most accurately as a “ritualist”.

What are some of the rituals Fu Has was involved with? How do the objects in her tomb represent her role in the Shang court?

Highlight at least two specific objects in your answer. Finally, take a look at Fu Hao’s ceremonial axe. What was this axe used for? How does it communicate royal authority?

 

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