This large bronze kettle (ding) was last used in cooking the funeral feast of its owner, after which it was interred with the deceased.

The ding rests on three hollow legs, which elevated it above the cooking fire. The legs were hollow to reduce the weight and cost of the bronze, and to better conduct the heat of cooking.

Monster masks (taotie) decorate the neck and legs of the vessel, and loop handles are provided to engage a carrying pole or hooks.