Artist: Yuri Elperin

Wu Zetian Dream

武则天之梦

sculpture/painting

72 x 48 x 9 inches

2020

Wu Zetian ( ruled 690 – 705 CE), personal name Wu Zhao, was the empress regnant, and only ruler of the (Wu) Zhou dynasty. She had previously held power as the second wife and empress consort of Emperor Gaozong of the Tang dynasty and as empress dowager during the reigns of her sons Emperors Zhongzong and Ruizong of Tang, holding de facto power during these periods starting in 660. She was the only female sovereign in the history of China who is widely regarded as illegitimate. During her 45-year tenure, China grew larger, becoming one of the great powers of the world, its culture and economy were revitalized, and corruption in the court was reduced. She was eventually removed from power during the Shenlong Coup,and died a few months later.