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Li Xianhui, the Princess Yongtai was the seventh
daughter of Emperor Zhong Zong and grand daughter of Gao Zong and
the Empress Wu Zetian. This maiden was considered so beautiful that
it was said that even the plum blossom lost its brilliance in her
presence. Adored by her imperial father for her beauty and wisdom
she was married to Wu Yanji in 700 AD. Her newly wed husband's father
was a nephew of the Empress but her family ties gave her no protection
from her grandmother. A year after her marriage and only seventeen
years of age the princess was put to death in the same fashion as
her brother Li Chongrun, the Crown Prince Yide. The young, ill-fated
bride was recognized posthumously as Princess Yongtai in 706.
This tomb is situated 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles)
south east of the Qian Mausoleum and was built to the same specifications
as those of an empress' tomb. Once again, this tomb is renowned
for the quality of the many items found in it as well as the extremely
fine wall paintings. Although the paintings depict famous buildings
and towers, the rich trappings of courtly life and magnificent ceremonial
parades, it is the painting of sixteen maids of honor that catch
the attention of visitors. One of these elegant young women is known
as the 'First Oriental Beauty'. Her round face with her well shaped
eyebrows, enticing lips and graceful figure has evoked admiration
from all who have looked upon her. These images are a wonderful
reflection of the glories of the Tang court in its heyday. Despite
the intrigue and perils that surrounded members of the aristocracy
the court enjoyed wealth, culture and a degree of elegance that
made it a source of wonder.
The murals have been removed to the Shaanxi Provincial Museum for safekeeping and replaced with replicas.
This tomb had been subject to raids and many grave goods have been
stolen. However, some 1046 pieces have survived intact. Ceramic
figures, tri-color figures and wooden figurines represent 878 of
these pieces. Among them, 700 ceramic figures include heavenly kings,
male, female and ethnic equestrians, musicians complete with their
musical instruments and animals. The tri-color figurines are of
many subjects in a variety of poses. By contrast there are thirty
carved wooden figures that are all male.
| Admission Fee: |
CNY25 (Mar. to Nov.)
CNY15 (Dec. to Feb.) |
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