Unveiling burial customs of ancient Qiuci State

In 2007, during the construction of an underground pass in Kucha, Xinjiang, a tomb complex dating back to the Wei and Jin dynasties (A.D. 220-420) was unexpectedly discovered. The tombs were well-preserved, and the funerary objects were exquisite, providing invaluable physical evidence for the studies of the history of the Western Regions.

Kucha, known as Qiuci in ancient times, was one of the 36 states of the ancient Western Regions. It was an important hub on the ancient Silk Road and a key intersection for the convergence of Eastern and Western cultures. Buddhist art, music, and murals flourished here, giving rise to the unique Qiuci culture.

For these tombs that had been dormant for over a thousand years, Ma Lili, Director of the Qiuci Wei and Jin Ancient Tomb Site Museum, has pondered with her team over how to truly bring the historical value of these relics to the public's attention. Ultimately, the team decided to use digital technology to bring the artifacts to life. Through interactive exhibitions, the tombs and the funerary objects were restored to their original appearance, allowing visitors to personally appreciate the brilliance and charm of Kucha culture, and breathing new life into this ancient civilization in the modern age.