Residences in Chang’an in mthe Tang Dynasty were divided in official mansions and private houses in term of right of possession. An exploratory investigation of succession and transfer of residence possession shows that neither natural succession nor rent could essentially result in a change of possession of the residence. However, transfer of possession between official mansions and private houses was possible, for some private houses might turn into official mansions by confiscation, collection and sale while some official mansions might turn into private residence through reward and sale.

Chang’an in the Tang Dynasty; residence; right of possession