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The legend of Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai is set in the Eastern Jin Dynasty.

Zhu Yingtai is a beautiful and intelligent young woman, the ninth child and only daughter of the wealthy Zhu family of Shangyu, Zhejiang. Although traditions of that era discourage females from going to school, Zhu manages to convince her father to allow her to attend classes in disguise as a young man. During her journey to Hangzhou, she meets Liang Shanbo, a scholar from Kuaiji (present-day Shaoxing). They chat and feel a strong affinity for each other at their first meeting. Hence, they gather some soil as incense and take an oath of fraternity in the pavilion of a thatched bridge.

They study together for the next three years in school and Zhu gradually falls in love with Liang. Although Liang equals Zhu in their studies, he is still a bookworm and fails to notice the feminine characteristics exhibited by his classmate.

One day, Zhu receives a letter from her father, asking her to return home as soon as possible. Zhu has no choice but to pack her belongings immediately and bid Liang farewell. However, in her heart, she has already confessed her love for Liang and is determined to be with him for all eternity. Before her departure, she reveals her true identity to the headmaster's wife and requirements her to hand over a jade pendant to Liang as a betrothal gift.

Liang accompanies his "sworn brother" for 18 miles to see her off. During the journey, Zhu hints to Liang that she is actually a woman. For example, she compares them to a pair of mandarin ducks (a symbol of lovers in Chinese culture), but Liang does not catch her hints and does not even have the slightest suspicion that his companion is a woman in disguise. Zhu finally comes up with an idea and tells Liang that she will act as a matchmaker for him and his "sister". Before they part, Zhu reminds Liang to visit her residence later so he can propose to marry her "sister." Liang and Zhu reluctantly part ways at the Changting pavilion.

Months later, when Liang visits Zhu, he discovers that she is actually a woman. They are devoted to and passionate about each other and they make a vow of "till death do us part". The joy of their reunion is short-lived as Zhu's parents have already arranged for her to marry a man from a rich family called Ma Wencai. Liang is heartbroken when he hears the news and his health gradually deteriorates until he becomes critically ill. He dies in office later as a county magistrate.

On the day of Ma and Zhu's marriage, mysterious whirlwinds prevent the wedding procession from escorting the bride beyond Liang's grave, which lies along the journey. Zhu leaves the procession to pay her respects to Liang. She descends in bitter despair and begs for the grave to open up. Suddenly, the grave opens with a clap of thunder. Without further hesitation, Zhu throws herself into the grave to join Liang. Their spirits turn into a pair of beautiful butterflies and emerge from the grave. They fly away together as a pair of butterflies and are never to be separated again.

Artistic & Historical Background:          Listen
This artwork is a set of ancient Chinese clothing from the Jin Dynasty, including long-sleeved dresses and headdresses with butterfly patterns.

These costumes are famous for their exquisite design and rich historical significance.

They represent the unique charm and artistic value of ancient Chinese culture.

Butterfly patterns are an important theme in traditional Chinese culture, symbolizing love and beauty.

On these long-sleeved dresses, we can see many details such as delicate embroidery, gorgeous decorations, and unique tailoring.

All of these elements demonstrate the craftsmanship and creativity of the makers.

In addition to the dresses themselves, the headdresses are also an important part of this set of costumes.

They are usually made of metal and adorned with gems and other decorations.

These headdresses not only add to the overall grandeur of the outfit but also give the wearer a sense of nobility and elegance.

By appreciating this set of ancient Chinese clothing from the Jin Dynasty, we can gain a deeper understanding of the richness and diversity of ancient Chinese culture.

These costumes not only have practical functions but also serve as carriers of art and culture, reflecting the values and aesthetic standards of the society at that time.

They provide us with a window into the past, allowing us to glimpse the brilliance and beauty of history.