Nippon Post Murals from the Takamatsuzuka Tomb

NIPPON POST on 26 March 1973 issued three First Day Cover stamps displaying murals from the Takamatsuzuka Tomb, a kofun (burial mound) located in Asuka, Nara, Japan. The tomb is known for its vibrant murals, which are thought to be influenced by the art of the Tang Dynasty of China and Goguryeo. 

The murals featured on these stamps include: one of the guardian spirits -- Seiryu, a blue dragon guarding one of the four directions in the crypt; courtly figures dressed in Goguryeo-style clothes; and women richly attired and carrying round fans (sashiba) and Buddhist-related staffs. The woman dressed in red and carrying a staff is referred to as Asuka bijin, or "Beauty from Asuka." Postmark cancellation originated from Nara Asuka, Japan.

The Takamatsuzuka Tomb is a significant historical site, believed to have been built in the Fujiwara-kyo era (694-710), this five-meter tall two-tiered round burial mound has a diameter of 23 meters on the first level and a diameter of 18 meters on the second level. Though it is not known who was buried here, theories propose it may be the son of Emperor Tenmu, a royal vassal, or royalty from the Korean peninsula. 

The discovery of the murals in the 1970s has provided valuable insights into the art and culture of the Asuka period. The tomb is now a national historic site and is managed by the Japanese government.