Definition: The Shizhaishan site, located in Yunnan Province, is a cemetery site dated between 250 BC-1 AD, and belonging to the Dian culture between the Warring States and Han periods. Over fifty tombs have been excavated to date, most of which were rectangular earthen shaft burials in coffins, sometimes decorated with vivid colored lacquer. Grave goods include objects of jade, gold, iron, pottery, stone, and pearl. At least some of the burials belong to rulers or aristocrats of the Dian kingdom, based on the size and grave good content of a few of the graves, including bronze vessels, armory, and musical instruments.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar. Any mistakes are the responsibility of Kris Hirst.
Alternate Spellings: ShiZhaiShan
