The 2,200 -year -old Chinese burial discovers woman with toxic red teeth

A burial place in northwest China revealed the remains of a woman with an unusual feature – her teeth were painted with cinnabar, a toxic red mineral composed of mercury and sulfur. The tomb, dated 2,200 and 2,050 years ago, was found in Turpan City, Xinjiang, along a large commercial silk route. Archaeologists identified the remains as belonging to the Gushi people, known for their equestrian culture. The meaning of cinabar stained teeth in ancient societies was not documented before.

First case recorded of cinnabar in the teeth

According to a to study Published in archaeological and anthropological sciences, this is the first known example of cinnabar being applied to human teeth. Qian Wang, Professor of Biomedical Sciences at Texas Faculty of Dentistry A&M University, told Live science that no other old burial around the world has exhibited this practice. Red pigment analysis, conducted through spectroscopy methods, confirmed the presence of cinnabar mixed with an animal protein, possibly egg yolk or egg white to facilitate application.

Possible cultural and ritualistic meaning

The goal behind the red pigment remains uncertain. Experts suggest connections with cosmetic practices, social status or shamanistic rituals. Other burials in the region showed evidence of facial paintings and tattoos, indicating the possibility of broader adornment traditions of the body. The Xinjiang region does not have natural cinnamar deposits, implying that the substance was imported, possibly from western Asia, Europe or Other parts of China.

Health risks of cinabar exposure

Li Sun, Professor of Geology at Collin College, observed the potential health risks associated with the use of cinnabar. Exposure to mercury is linked to neurological damage, but no trace of mercury poisoning was detected in the woman’s bones. The frequency and duration of exposure remain uncertain.