Tang Dynasty tomb murals raise eyebrows with mysterious 'victory sign'

Hand gestures resembling the modern-day victory sign in murals adorning a recently unearthed Tang Dynasty (618-907) tomb have sparked curiosity among archaeologists and visitors alike.

The Archaeological Museum of Jinyang Ancient City in Taiyuan, Shanxi province, unveiled the well-preserved brick chamber tomb of Guo Xing on Friday. Dating back over 1,300 years, it's the first public display of this accidental discovery from 2019.

Guo Xing, a Tang Dynasty military officer under Emperor Taizong, Li Shimin (599-649), rests alongside his wife within the tomb. Exquisite murals adorn the chamber walls, ceiling, door, and even the coffin.

Intriguingly, some figures in the murals raise their index and middle fingers, with the remaining fingers curled, in a gesture remarkably similar to the modern-day victory sign.

However, the meaning behind this pose remains ambiguous. Pei Jingrong, head of the Taiyuan Institute of Archaeology, told China Central Television that while some interpret it as a blessing, a definitive explanation eludes the academic community.

The newly unveiled tomb adds another layer of cultural richness to the museum, which stands within the ancient city of Jinyang, whose history stretches back to the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC). As a thematic museum, it delves deep into the history and culture of this ancient metropolis.