The Han Dynasty in China ruled for more than 400 years. The dynasty is divided into two periods: the Western Han, with Xi’an (formerly Chang’an) as its capital (206 BCE–9 CE), and the Eastern Han, which ruled from Luoyang (25–220 CE). These were pivotal years in the history of China. During the long reign of the Han the foundations were laid for many enduring aspects of Chinese society and culture. Philosophy and literature flourished, with Confucianism becoming the model for official conduct. A civil service was created with entrance examinations based on knowledge of Confucian texts—a system that lasted through the early 20th century. Simul-taneously the influence of Daoism continued to grow and Buddhism was introduced from India.

During the rule of Emperor Wu (r. 141–87 BCE), the Han defeated the Xiongnu, a nomadic tribal group that occupied territory west of China in Central Asia. As a result, for the first time China gained control of the trade routes across Asia, later known as the Silk Road. Increased contact with India, Persia, and other cultures along the Silk Road introduced new symbols, motifs, and techniques to Chinese art.

Bronzes and jades in the Han dynasty became more closely associated with affluence and luxury, in contrast to their use in religious rituals during the Shang dynasty. One special type of jade object was the jade burial suit, in which royal members of the Han Dynasty were interred. Thanks to the invention of paper, calligraphy as an art form also flourished in the Han dynasty. Web resources here and here.