China: Emperor Taizong (r. 626-649) receives Ludongzan, ambassador of Tibet, at his court, painted in 641 CE by Yan Liben (600-673). Emperor Taizong of Tang (January 23, 599 - July 10, 649), personal name Li Shimin, was the second emperor of the Tang Dynasty of China, ruling from 626 to 649. He is ceremonially regarded as a co-founder of the dynasty along with Emperor Gaozu. He is typically considered one of the greatest, if not the greatest, emperors in Chinese history.