The Met’s timeline dates the Sui dynasty to 581–618 CE.
Chronological context#
The same timeline places the beginning of Tang at 618. These dates provide a reference for reading objects and historical accounts, not a claim that every local transition was instantaneous.
A reading exercise#
Distinguish the date of a dynasty from a monument’s first construction, later rebuilding and modern restoration. Ask which phase an architectural description actually concerns.
Using the dates#
The exercise is editorial guidance for evaluating evidence. Retain the named reference and its dating convention when comparing another account; this short introduction is not an exhaustive political history.