A Cross-cultural Comparison of Tomb Murals from the Etruscans and the Kingdom of Goguryeo

A cross-cultural comparison of tomb murals from the Etruscan civilization (ca. 900 - 27 B.C.) and the Kingdom of Goguryeo (ca. 37 B.C. - 668) reveals striking similarities in their pictorial language, suggesting shared or universal values in early state formations. Both civilizations depicted themes such as tomb owners, banqueting scenes, hunting, and processions, indicating common social behaviors like ancestor cults and elite distinction. Unique elements—such as star constellations in Goguryeo and sex scenes in Etruscan art—highlight cultural peculiarities. The study analyzes these murals to uncover universal patterns while acknowledging cultural differences, offering insights into their perceptions of the afterlife and societal structures.

Müller, S. (2022). A Cross-cultural Comparison of Tomb Murals from the Etruscans and the Kingdom of Goguryeo. Korea Association of World History and Culture, 65, 31–62. https://doi.org/10.32961/jwhc.2022.12.65.31