This 'jian' was used to contain water during ablutions and for taking baths, depending on its size. During banquets, it was also used to contain ice. Before mirrors were invented and became popular in the Warring States period (481-256 BCE), the jian functioned as a reflector when filled with water. Its shape can be traced to a Neolithic ceramic prototype while those made of bronze such as this, only appeared in the eighth century BCE.
