Definition: The Dian Kingdom is the name of a Chinese Bronze Age culture and dynasty with evidence of iron-forging, in eastern Yunnan province of southwestern China (ca. 1000-1 BC). The Dian were highly proficient at bronzes, and their distinctive style may be traced from the Warring States to the early eastern Han period. The Dian Kingdom may be related to the Dong Son culture of mainland southeast Asia. Excavations were conducted in the latter half of the 20th century at Dian cemetery sites at Shizaishan, Lijiashan, and Yangputou, in Yunnan province.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar. Any mistakes are the responsibility of Kris Hirst.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar. Any mistakes are the responsibility of Kris Hirst.
Examples: Shizaishan, Lijiashan, and Yangputou
