The image and connotation of small sculptures on bronze drums in Southern China

Abstract

Lengshuichong type (‍冷水冲型‍), Lingshan type (‍灵山型‍) and Beiliu type (‍北流型‍) bronze drums are collectively known as ‘Large Bronze Drums’. They were popular in Guangxi and Guangdong from the Han to Tang Dynasty (202 BCE – 907 CE), and were characterized by their large shape and numerous small sculptures located on the drum face or foot. In addition to the main frog motifs, there are also depictions of horses, cattle, birds, tigers, aquatic animals, and scenes of human-animal interactions such as riding, plowing with oxen, children playing with turtles and watching frogs fight, etc. The position of the sculptures reflects the playing method of each type of bronze drum: drums with sculptures on the face are generally played while placed flat on the ground, whereas drums with sculptures on the body are typically played while suspended. The sculptures on the bronze drums integrate elements of Lingnan culture, Central Plains Han culture, and Dian culture, reflecting the caster’s contemplation of the universe, nature, and their relationship with humanity.