Mineralogical composition and cultural functions of Wushi from a Sui Dynasty tomb in Shaanxi province

Wushi are commonly found in tombs from the Eastern Han (25–220 CE) to the Western Jin dynasty (266–316 CE), but are rarely discovered in later periods. The identification of Wushi in Tomb M3 of the Wang Shao family cemetery represents the first recorded instance in a Sui dynasty (581–618 CE) burial. To investigate the mineral composition and explore their cultural significance, optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy were employed. The results indicate that the assemblage consisted of lapis lazuli, realgar, orpiment, magnetite and rock crystal. Lapis lazuli and rock crystal were used as substitutes, broadening the inventory of minerals employed in the Sui dynasty. The placement of Wushi in Wang Shitong’s tomb reflects a ritual practice intended to protect the deceased’s soul. These findings offer new insights into the cultural significance of Wushi in early medieval China.