Ming Dynasty tomb discovered in Central China

An ancient mural tomb from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) was excavated recently in Xingyang city, Central China's Henan province.

Aerial photo shows the layout of King Zhouyi's tomb in Xingyang city, Central China's Henan Province 
[Credit: Xinhua]

According to the epitaph discovered, archaeologists were able to conclude that it must be King Zhouyi's tomb dating back to the Ming Dynasty.

Archaeologists dismantle the brick door that sealed the inner chambers of King Zhouyi's tomb in Xingyang city, 
Central China's Henan Province [Credit: Xinhua]

The indoor area of King Zhouyi's tomb in Xingyang city, Central China's Henan province 
[Credit: Xinhua]

He was the descendant of Zhu Su, the fifth son of Emperor Taizu Zhu Yuanzhang, whose fief was in Kaifeng of Henan. It made him the fifth seignior of the region.

Mural patterns on the upper wall of King Zhouyi's tomb in Xingyang city, Central China's Henan province 
[Credit: Xinhua]

Mural patterns on the upper wall of King Zhouyi's tomb in Xingyang city, Central China's Henan province 
[Credit: Xinhua]

Green glazed tiles are excavated from King Zhouyi's tomb in Xingyang city, Central China's Henan province 
[Credit: Xinhua]

The tomb provides valuable information about the burial ritual of the royal families in the Ming Dynasty.

Tools for daily use are excavated from King Zhouyi's tomb in Xingyang city, Central China's Henan province 
[Credit: Xinhua]

Articles made of lead are excavated from King Zhouyi's tomb in Xingyang city, Central China's Henan province 
[Credit: Xinhua]

Lampstands are excavated from King Zhouyi's tomb in Xingyang city, Central China's Henan province 
[Credit: Xinhua]

With a history of 531 years, the tomb still has a large area of well-preserved murals.

Source: China Daily [December 14, 2016]