The studies on the measuring devices of the Han Dynasty and the relevant issues

Abstract

AbstractGreat progress has been made in the study of the measurement of the Han Dynasty by the efforts of scholars of several generations. Increasing new discoveries have refreshed our understandings as well. The discoveries and analyses of rulers of the Han Dynasty indicate that the commonly used rulers at that time were made of bronze, bone and wood. Their materials and decorations varied in terms of date and region, and were often found as grave goods in the burials of women. The actual length of the unit “chi” was generally 23cm during the Western Han and Xin (Wang Mang Interregnum) Dynasties and was usually 23.4cm in the Eastern Han Dynasty. It could be seen as the standard measurement during that time. Archaeological research should calculate and understand the size of objects and architecture of the Han Dynasty based on this scale, but had better not be restricted by it. Therefore, an archaeological study with scientific perspective of measurement should adopt measurement concepts in historical context to investigate and analyze cultural remains and features, rather than deal with it stereotypically.