A bronze battle-axe that evokes a smile

EDITOR's Note: Every week we look at a work of art or a cultural relic that puts the spotlight on China's heritage.

The on-going exhibition, The Art of Chinese Bronze Wares, at the National Museum of China, offers not just a peek into ancient Chinese civilization, but also a rare look at the sense of humor of its ancient creators.

Take the Ya Chou bronze battle-axe, for example.