A History of the World in 100 Objects
Chinese Tang tomb figures
Jun 18, 2010
This podcast explores life in medieval royal courts around the world. In this episode, they focus on Tang Dynasty in China and the practice of writing obituaries. They discuss ceramic tomb figures found in the tomb of a Tang general and the growing ambitions of the dynasty. The enduring power of obituaries is also explored.
14:20
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Quick takeaways
- Powerful figures in Tang Dynasty China wrote or commissioned their own obituaries to both be remembered and impress judges of the underworld, showcasing the cultural richness and ambition for everlasting admiration.
- The ceramic tomb figures found in the Tang general's tomb signify the political and economic dominance of the Tang Empire, symbolizing the power, prosperity, and close trading links between China and Central Asia.
Deep dives
The Power of Obituaries in Tang China
During the Tang Dynasty in China around 700 A.D., powerful figures wrote or commissioned their own obituaries, an act not just to be remembered but to impress the judges of the underworld. These obituaries were poetic and lyrical and served as a way to test the writing skills of officials. One such figure, Liu Ting Shun, commissioned a glowing obituary that was buried with his ceramic figures, showcasing his achievements and virtues. These tomb figures, depicted in vibrant colors, give us a glimpse into Tang China's cultural richness and the ambition for everlasting admiration.
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