Bronze foal-shaped zun vessel, Western Zhou Dynasty, c.11th century-771 BC. Unearthed in 1955 in Meixian county, Shaanxi © National Museum of China.

This lifelike foal stands proudly with its head held high, perky ears, short mane, and a dangling tail. Its hollow body and lidded opening on the back reveal its function as a ritual vessel. Look closer, inscriptions cast on its neck, chest, and inside the lid record a royal ceremony in which the Zhou king awarded official Li two foals. In gratitude, Li commissioned this vessel.