Leisure and Cultural Services Department
Cao Cao (AD 155-220) was an outstanding politician, military strategist and poet during the late Eastern Han dynasty. He laid the foundation for the establishment of the Wei state and profoundly influenced the historical trajectory of the Three Kingdoms period.
In 2009, Cao Cao’s tomb was discovered in Anyang, Henan Province. This was followed by intense debate over the authenticity of the tomb. The academic community confirmed the layout of the cemetery, the burial structure and the remains and various artefacts found in the tomb, forming a complete chain of evidence for Cao Cao’s tomb.
This exhibition aims to trace the discovery, excavation and verification of Cao Cao’s tomb, unveiling its mystery and revealing the true character of Cao Cao. It is organised in conjunction with the General History of China Exhibition Series held at the Hong Kong Museum of History annually. Incorporating replicas of excavated artefacts and drawing on the research of Tang Jigen, Chair Professor of Humanities at the Southern University of Science and Technology, and former researcher at the Institute of Archaeology, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, the exhibition reveals the true character of the formidable hero Cao Cao, while offering a glimpse into the social and political landscape of the late Eastern Han dynasty. In addition to the children’s panels and videos, visitors can explore Cao Cao’s multifaceted personality through an interactive rotating cube installation that showcases well-known anecdotes. There is also a photo spot where visitors can savour the grandeur of Cao Cao’s literary and military achievements.
