The Ming Tombs (Images of Asia)

Few visit Beijing without going to the Ming Tombs, the burial grounds of the Ming dynasty who ruled China from 1368 to 1644. This book gives a concise and up-to-date description of one of China's most important archaeological sites. It explains the beliefs underlying Chinese burial practices and the significant symbolism of the stone monuments lining the spirit road--the avenue leading to the first tomb in the valley--with its animals and stone officials in fifteenth-century court costume.