On the basis of an overall collection of relevant data, this book divides the carved bronzes of Han Dynasty into three classes according to the differences in types and patterns, and discusses their features in shapes, pattern themes, layout and space and time distribution. Besides, it also tries to sort out the development sequence of carved bronzes in different areas. By studying the relationships between those areas, the author lays the foundation for the exploration of the origin, and finally finishes the overall genealogical study on the development and changes of carved bronzes of Han Dynasty. Relevant features and application are also included in the final part.

Xiaoping WU, professor of Archeology, Ph.D. supervisor at School of Humanities, Zhejiang University. His research is on Chinese archeology, focusing on the study of material culture in the Han and Tang Dynasties. He has published a number of papers, including, among others, "Bronze Vessels of the Six Dynasties Archaeological Research", "Preliminary Study on the Han Dynasty Square Plate Decoration". He also published such monographs as Han Dynasty Bronze Vessel Archaeological Research, Zhejiang Chuan Liu Jia Gou Cemetery