Early Period. From pre-history to the sixth century BC. Bronze Age
vessels, decorated with animals and dragons, reveal evidence of traditional
ancestor-worship.This laid the ground for Confucianism.
Classical Period. From Confucius (551-479 BC) to the advent of
Buddhism.
Post-Buddhist period. From the first century A.D. to the
Neo-Confucian revival.
Late period. From the start of the Sung Dynasty (960 AD) until the
impact of the west in the nineteenth century.
