Forms and Functions of Dining Utensils in Northern Song Tomb Murals: Archaeological Insights

Banqueting was a cornerstone of Northern Song Dynasty (960–1127 CE) social life, with dining utensils serving as vital artifacts that embodied the era’s aesthetic sensibilities, social customs, and cultural values. This study examines the typology, forms, and compositional arrangements of utensils depicted in Northern Song tomb murals, drawing on archaeological evidence from sites in Henan and Hebei, textual records, and surviving ceramics. It elucidates the ritual frameworks, social hierarchies, and dining practices reflected in banquet scenes, offering a comprehensive analysis of their role in Northern Song society. By correlating mural depictions with material artifacts, this research provides fresh insights into the interplay of functionality and symbolism in banquet culture and establishes a methodological framework for evaluating the authenticity and interpretive potential of historical imagery. The study underscores the critical role of material culture in reconstructing past social practices, contributing to a deeper understanding of Northern Song cultural history.