Hollow Brick Tombs, Rock-Cut Chamber Tombs, and the Two-Tiered Earthen Platform Phenomenon in Qin Tombs

Despite the continuous improvement of productivity and the growing human ability to transform and utilize nature, natural conditions and the ecological environment have always been decisive factors shaping the characteristics of cultural remains. During the Warring States, Qin, and Han periods, the emergence of vertical shaft tombs with a rammed-earth two-tiered platform, the subsequent prevalence of rock-cut chamber tombs and hollow brick tombs, and eventually the popularity of small brick tombs, were all passive adaptations to the reality of dwindling timber resources, reflecting the principle of making the best use of local conditions.