Zhang Shiqing Mural Tomb

Zhang Shiqing Mural Tomb

The Zhang Shiqing Mural Tomb is a cultural relic protection unit of Hebei Province.

The Zhang Shiqing Mural Tomb is located on a slope about one li north of Xiabali Village in Xuanhua District, Zhangjiakou, Hebei Province. Among them, the most famous mural tomb was built in the sixth year of the Tianqing era (1116) during the reign of Emperor Tianzuo of the Liao Dynasty. The tomb owner, Zhang Shiqing, was a Han Chinese who contributed 2,500 hu of grain to the imperial court and was granted the title of Yunqiwei. The murals are vibrant in color, with smooth brushwork, and the lines—all hold significant value. The murals in the Xuanhua Liao tombs feature both Han Chinese and Khitan figures and costumes, reflecting the distinct local characteristic of coexisting and blending Khitan and Han customs. The cultural significance of the tomb cluster is profound, making it a true historical scroll of the Liao Dynasty and an underground art gallery.

The white plaster walls of the front and rear chambers of this Liao tomb are entirely covered in murals, spanning a total area of 86 square meters. They primarily depict scenes from the tomb owner’s life. The murals are vibrant in color, with smooth brushwork, and the lines—all hold significant value. Even more precious than the murals is the colorful star chart painted on the domed ceiling of the rear chamber. This star chart includes both China’s Twenty-Eight Lunar Mansions and the zodiac system of twelve constellations originating from ancient Babylon. This indicates that China had engaged in astronomical exchanges with foreign countries as early as the 12th century. Such a blend of Chinese and Western elements in a star chart was an unprecedented discovery in China, making it even more valuable.

The burial method for the tomb’s occupant during the Liao Dynasty was also unique. Following the ancient Indian practice of cremation, the ashes were placed inside a wooden effigy, which was then stored in a wooden box before being buried in the tomb chamber. Since the first excavation of the Zhang Shiqing Tomb in 1973, nine other Liao Dynasty mural tombs have been excavated nearby, including those of Zhang Shiben, Zhang Gongyou, Zhang Kuangzheng, Han Shixun, and Zhang Wencao. Together, they form the Zhang Family Mural Tomb Cluster.

Further Reading:

· Second Batch of Cultural Relic Protection Units of Hebei Province