Bianzhong

The Bianzhong consists of bells of different sizes that produce hollow sounds of different pitch.

Its origin can be traced back 5000 years when the first clay Zhong (bell) was manufactured. During the Shang Dynasty (17th century - 11th century BC), Zhongs made of copper were produced. During the Western Zhou Dynasty (11th century - 771 BC), it became an important instrument in playing music for the Emperor. Since it was an instrument for the Emperor, the carvings on the Zhongs were done beautifully.

In Chun Qiu Zhan Guo, many Zhongs of different sizes and pitch were grouped together and were hanged on the wooden rack. There can be 6, 7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 16, 36, and even 65 Zhongs being grouped together.

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