Shang Writing

Shang writing is an ancient Chinese script used during the Shang Dynasty (c. 1600–1046 BCE). It primarily consists of inscriptions carved on oracle bones and bronze vessels, combining pictographic and ideographic characters to represent objects, concepts, and actions. These early writings served ritual purposes, especially in divination. Over time, they evolved into more standardized characters that laid the foundation for modern Chinese script. Shang writing is significant because it provides valuable insights into early Chinese language, culture, and history, demonstrating a sophisticated system of symbolic communication used more than 3,000 years ago.