Tangut character 17BF7

A Tangut character from a writing system distinct from Han Chinese.

Tangut writing was used for the Tangut language. Its characters can resemble Han Chinese characters, but Tangut is a separate script.

The Unicode name is algorithmic: it identifies 𗯷 by code point, but gives no Tangut word's meaning or pronunciation. A dictionary entry and surrounding text are needed to interpret it.

Tangut writing outlasted Western Xia

The script was developed for Western Xia state-building around 1036 CE, including a major project to produce a Buddhist canon in Tangut. It also carried translations of Chinese works on government, ethics, classics, encyclopedias, law, and economic records.

Like neighboring Khitan states, the Tanguts developed a native script drawing on structural ideas from Chinese writing. After Western Xia fell to the Mongols in 1227, Tangut writing continued in Yuan and Ming texts, especially Buddhist works.