Core Viewpoint - Recent discoveries at the Mawangdui Han Tomb have revealed that the previously identified "pillow cover" known as "Qidi 'Chengyun Embroidery'" is actually the earliest silk cushion found in archaeological history, along with significant findings regarding the T-shaped silk painting that shows signs of alterations [1][2]. Group 1: Discoveries at Mawangdui Han Tomb - The "Qidi 'Chengyun Embroidery'" cushion measures 100 cm in length and 74 cm in width, found in the tomb of Li Cang's wife, Xinzhui, and was previously misidentified as a pillow cover [1][2]. - The T-shaped silk painting, a centerpiece of the Hunan Museum's collection, is divided into three sections: heaven, earth, and underground, featuring a mythical creature and various deities [3]. Group 2: Research Methodology and Findings - Experts utilized multi-modal imaging techniques, including multi-spectral and X-ray fluorescence imaging, to identify multiple alteration traces on the T-shaped silk painting, indicating changes in artistic representation over time [3][4]. - The systematic inventory of over 21,000 artifacts from the Mawangdui Han Tomb was completed in 2022, revealing new insights, including auspicious phrases woven into textiles [4]. Group 3: Future Research Directions - The application of artificial intelligence tools and advanced imaging techniques is expected to enhance the study of Mawangdui silk texts and paintings, aiding in the restoration and preservation of these artifacts [5].

Core Insights - The recent discoveries at the Mawangdui Han Tomb reveal that the previously identified "pillow towel" known as "Qidi 'Chengyun Embroidery'" is actually a cushion, marking it as the earliest silk cushion found in archaeological records [1][3][4] - The T-shaped silk painting, a national treasure of the Hunan Museum, has been found to have multiple traces of alterations, indicating changes made during its creation [1][6][7] Group 1: Discoveries at Mawangdui Han Tomb - The "Qidi 'Chengyun Embroidery'" cushion measures 100 cm in length and 74 cm in width, discovered in the tomb of Li Cang's wife, Xinzhui [3] - The cushion was initially misidentified due to its similarity to another item, the "silk 'Chengyun Embroidery' pillow towel," which was found in the same burial chamber [4] - A review of historical records revealed that the term "茵" (cushion) was mistakenly recorded as "度" (degree), correcting the earlier misidentification [4] Group 2: T-shaped Silk Painting Findings - The T-shaped silk painting is divided into three sections: heaven, earth, and underground, featuring a mythical creature and various celestial elements [6] - Advanced imaging techniques uncovered multiple alteration traces, suggesting that the original design was modified, possibly due to changes in ritual practices over time [6][7] - The painting's depiction of a guardian figure holding a jade tablet indicates a ceremonial significance that may have evolved from the Spring and Autumn period to the Han dynasty [6] Group 3: Systematic Inventory and Research - In 2022, the Hunan Museum completed a systematic inventory of over 21,000 artifacts from the Mawangdui Han Tomb, including more than 19,000 textile items [9] - The use of artificial intelligence and advanced imaging techniques is being employed to enhance the study and preservation of Mawangdui artifacts, focusing on text and image restoration [9]

Core Viewpoint - The Hunan Museum has discovered multiple traces of repainting on the T-shaped silk painting, a national treasure, using advanced multi-modal imaging techniques [1][10]. Group 1: Discovery and Significance - The T-shaped silk painting was excavated from the Mawangdui No. 1 tomb, belonging to Xinzhui, the wife of the prime minister of the Changsha Kingdom, Li Cang [2]. - This painting is considered one of the museum's "treasures" due to its magnificent scenery and unique imagination [2]. Group 2: Details of the T-shaped Silk Painting - The painting is divided into three parts: heaven, earth, and underground, with the upper part featuring a human-bodied, snake-tailed deity, the candle dragon, and various celestial elements [4]. - Specific areas of repainting include the jade tablet held by the guardian deity and the positioning of figures in the human realm, indicating changes in ritual practices over time [6][8]. Group 3: Research and Future Directions - Experts are utilizing artificial intelligence and multi-modal imaging techniques to further study the Mawangdui silk texts and paintings, aiming to address challenges in text and image restoration [11]. - The museum plans to apply for a national-level project to integrate AI technology with the study of silk texts, seeking to overcome existing difficulties in the restoration process [11].