A Study of Animal Images Characteristics of Cultural Relics in the Marquis of Haihun Tomb to Create a Board Game

Abstract

Purpose:
This study explores the cultural and historical significance of animal imagery from the Han Dynasty, specifically focusing on the artifacts from the Marquis of Haihun Tomb. The objective is to analyze the socio-cultural and artistic dimensions of these depictions and translate their symbolic richness into an engaging educational tool—a board game designed for children aged 6–11.

Methodology:
The research adopts an interdisciplinary qualitative approach, integrating Cultural Symbolism Theory, Mythology Theory, Poststructuralism Theory, and Cultural Diffusion Theory. Data were collected through interviews with cultural experts, observations of museum environments, and focus group discussions with designers and educators. These methods informed the classification and analysis of over 1,000 artifacts, identifying key symbolic and artistic characteristics of animal imagery.

Results:
Findings reveal that Han Dynasty animal imagery reflects complex socio-political, religious, and philosophical values. The study categorizes 96 animal depictions into 18 groups, highlighting their evolution from abstraction to realism. This analysis informed the design of Tales of Han Relics, a memory-based cooperative board game featuring 76 cards inspired by these motifs. Iterative testing with children and cultural experts demonstrated the game’s potential to enhance historical understanding, cognitive skills, and cultural appreciation.

Conclusion:
This research bridges the gap between cultural heritage and interactive education, offering a novel method for engaging younger generations with the artistic and symbolic legacy of the Han Dynasty. By integrating historical authenticity with innovative design, the board game serves as both an educational tool and a model for preserving intangible cultural heritage in contemporary contexts.