Tomb Entrance from Han Dynasty China

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James Blake Wiener
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published on 07 November 2017
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Tomb Entrance from Han Dynasty China Download Full Size Image

Until about the 2nd century BCE, Chinese tombs featured chambers made of heavy wooden logs. Thereafter, tombs were made of stone and brick. This stone-made example from the Han Dynasty (206 BCE-220 CE) makes clear that the tombs of the wealthy were also seen as subterranean residences. Adorned with beautifully decorated walls, they were furnished with everything that the occupant might need in the hereafter. Although criticized by social reformers, lavish burial customs persisted. Tombs in ancient China were meant to last and to be visited by relatives over time with offerings. Stone tablets bearing the occupant's name, dates, and a short biography were also deposited in the tomb. These would survive beyond the family lineage. (Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto)

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About the Author

James Blake Wiener
James is a writer and former Professor of History. He holds an MA in World History with a particular interest in cross-cultural exchange and world history. He is a co-founder of World History Encyclopedia and formerly was its Communications Director.

Cite This Work

APA Style

Wiener, J. B. (2017, November 07). Tomb Entrance from Han Dynasty China. World History Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://www.worldhistory.org/image/7562/tomb-entrance-from-han-dynasty-china/

Chicago Style

Wiener, James Blake. "Tomb Entrance from Han Dynasty China." World History Encyclopedia. Last modified November 07, 2017. https://www.worldhistory.org/image/7562/tomb-entrance-from-han-dynasty-china/.

MLA Style

Wiener, James Blake. "Tomb Entrance from Han Dynasty China." World History Encyclopedia. World History Encyclopedia, 07 Nov 2017, https://www.worldhistory.org/image/7562/tomb-entrance-from-han-dynasty-china/. Web. 19 May 2025.

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