The Historian's Scrolls
Central to the scene, Sima Qian is shown as a wise and kind figure with a gentle smile, in traditional Han dynasty attire. He is seated at a wooden desk, with scrolls and an inkstone around him, highlighting his contribution as a historian and writer. Surrounding him are imaginative illustrations of historical figures and events from Chinese history. Playful representations of dragons, phoenixes, ancient scholars, and emperors bring a touch of whimsy and wonder to the composition.

