Even if we trace archaeology back to da Vinci and Raphael, there is another related discipline that began much earlier. Epigraphy, the study of ancient inscriptions, was first developed in ancient China. Unlike archaeology, it aimed to challenge and verify interpretations of classical Confucianism texts. 
A movement similar to the Renaissance blossomed in China during the 9th and 11th century. Leaders of the movement sought inspiration from ancient traditions. Part of their efforts was   research of inscriptions on ancient metal and stone artifacts. The most remarkable achievement in Chinese epigraphy was made by a couple at the end of Northern Song dynasty. The couple’s story is as well-known as their achievements.