The discovery sheds light on the burial customs and power dynamics of one of China’s most influential eras. Tian, who served under Emperors Wu and Zhao, rose to prominence during the dynasty’s golden age. Renowned for his integrity, he was granted the title Marquis of Fumin, which roughly translates to “enrich the people.”
The Society for Shaanxi Provincial Archaeology announced on Jan. 6 that the tomb, located in Jingyang County of Xianyang City, consists of five caves and is distinct for its scale and extraordinary finds. Situated near a larger burial site containing nearly 700 tombs from the same period, the tomb stands out as evidence of its owner’s noble rank.
