ARCHAEOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVES ON THE PRINCELY BURIALS OF THE MING DYNASTY ENFEOFFMENTS.

Since the 1950s, archaeological excavations of imperial-clan burials have provided significant insights into the religious beliefs, aesthetic preferences, social structures, and economic practices of imperial family members. This article surveys archaeological findings on intact king/spouse tombs and the Ding Imperial Mausoleum, analyzing how princely burial construction, planning, commissions, decoration, and ritual practices reflected contemporary political reality. As a comparative and comprehensive study that examines variations in burials due to region, status, and artistic traditions, this paper reconstructs the position of princes and how Ming imperial power was observed and controlled. By drawing on a largely overlooked body of evidence provided by material culture, new avenues are opened for further exploration of the practices surrounding death, burials, and commemoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]