A study of Xiongnu tombs

Abstract

AbstractThis paper makes an in-depth analysis to the Xiongnu tombs in the light of recently discovered data and new achievements in the study of relevant issues. It comprises four parts: distribution and date, unearthed typical artifacts, structural features and burial ritual, and periodization and zoning. By analyzing the unearthed artifacts, this paper sums up the general characteristics (identity) and traditional regional elements of the Xiongnu culture. By studying the tomb types, coffin structures and burial customs, this paper makes conclusions on the general characteristics, burial ritual systems and regional differences of Xiongnu tombs and their hierarchies reflected from the tomb structure and grave goods. Finally, based on the grave goods and tomb features, as well as the evolution and the identity and variety of burial ritual systems, this paper divides the available Xiongnu tombs into the early (late 3rd century BCE to mid 1st century CE), transitional (mid 1st century to early 2nd century CE) and late (early 2nd century to mid 3rd century CE) phases and, geographically, into the area from Transbaikalia to the middle Yellow River valley, that in the middle and upper Yellow River valley and that in Semirechye, with the first area further divided into four sub-areas. This paper believes that the first area was the dominion of the Xiongnu Empire; the second one, the region of the South Xiongnu submitting to the Han Dynasty; and the third one, the territory where the North Xiongnu launched their activities after their westward migration.