Research on tin-covered clay ritual vessels from Shijia Cemetery in Gansu Province, China

Abstract More than one hundred tin-covered clay ritual vessels unearthed from the Shijia Cemetery have been dated to the Spring and Autumn period. Multi-method analyses confirm a production process involving molding and drying of the clay body, followed by physical adhesion of pre-formed tin or lead-tin alloy foils to the clay body’s surface. Distinct from traditional bronze or pottery ritual vessels, such artifacts not only reflect an innovative application of tin to clay ritual vessels during this period but also establish a novel technical approach for ritual production and possess significant archaeological value. The origin, production motivations, and technical characteristics of these objects require further systematic investigation.