0188 - Iron mould for casting a pair of sickles. In the Warring States peri...Front

Iron mould for casting a pair of sickles. In the Warring States period, iron farming implements came into wide use, which gave a great impetus to the development of the productive forces. The use of iron in making moulds was not only unique in itself but also a great innovation made by the ironsmiths of the time. Iron moulds like this could be used repeatedly in casting both iron and bronze and their products were of a much finer quality. Warring States Period (475-221 B.C.). L. 32.5 cm. Unearthed in 1965 at Chiangling, Hupeh Province.