Insights into Ming Dynasty burial customs revealed
A section of an ancient brick-chambered mural tomb built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) in Xihe township of Fenyang city, Shanxi province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
The Shanxi Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology published new excavation information on Saturday, shedding light on two ancient brick-chambered mural tombs in Xihe township of Fenyang city, Shanxi province.
Based on the tomb structure and unearthed artifacts, archaeologists determined that the tombs date back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), representing a transitional phase in tomb construction.
According to the institute, the discovery will provide new materials for studying burial customs and social life during that period.
A section of an ancient brick-chambered mural tomb built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) in Xihe township of Fenyang city, Shanxi province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
Archaeologists noted that these discoveries provide precious materials for studying the early Ming Dynasty tomb structures and burial customs, offering a reliable benchmark for accurately dating other tombs from the era.
With the collection of more data and the progression of research, these discoveries have the potential to reshape our understanding of Ming Dynasty mural tombs, potentially challenging the old perception of them being in decline.
A section of an ancient brick-chambered mural tomb built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) in Xihe township of Fenyang city, Shanxi province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
Three tombs were discovered during the construction of the Fenyang Museum in November 2019, and staff members from the institute and the Fenyang Cultural and Tourism Bureau conducted excavation work.
Information about two of the three was published, including Tomb No M1 and No M2, octagonal brick-carved mural tombs with a mimicking wood structure.
The burial items include porcelain vessels such as bowls, jars and small cups.
A section of an ancient brick-chambered mural tomb built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) in Xihe township of Fenyang city, Shanxi province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
