An Exploration of the Functions of Bronze Wares as Bribery
Bing Bai · Journal of Wuyi University · 2005
It is an indisputable fact that bronze wares were used as bribery during the Spring and Autumn period, yet up to now there has not been any specialized research in such wares of bribery. Discrimination and investigation reveal that the functions of bronze wares as bribery were irreplaceable and there were complex reasons for bronzes wares to have been used as bribery during the time. As time elapsed, bronze wares gradually lost its symbolic meaning of status and royalty and became the substitute for indemnity and surrender to avoid war, seek peace or save one’s kingdom from destruction.