Noble Tombs at Mawangdui: Art and Life in the Changsha Kingdom (3rd Century BCE 1st Century CE) October 1, 2009

This exhibit highlights one of the most important archaeological excavations in China -- the unearthing of Mawangdui, the tomb of the first lady and family of the Changsha Kingdom (died 168 BC) in the Western Han dynasty (206 BC-8 AD). This exhibition will include some of the finest and among the earliest extant lacquers, silks, paintings, and written strips (early calligraphy/books). Through these various art works, the exhibition will also examine and reconstruct the art and culture of the Western Han dynasty, a formative period of Chinese culture and civilization, focusing on daily cuisine and drink, cosmetics and fashion, music and entertainment, healthcare and exercise, and the fascinating beliefs of the immortal world.