In a fascinating glimpse into ancient times, archaeologists at the Wuwangdun tomb site in Huainan, east China's Anhui Province, have discovered remarkably preserved stacks of leaves dating back over 2,200 years.
The tomb, recognized as the largest and most complex from the ancient Chu State, has long been a site of intrigue. Recently, in the tomb chamber known as \"East I,\" researchers found leaves floating on the water's surface. Upon closer examination in the lab, these leaves were revealed to be piled together with visible veins, despite signs of significant decay.
Zhang Zhiguo, a researcher at the National Center for Archaeology leading the excavation project, explained, \"The preservation condition of the leaves isn't ideal, but the visible veins suggest they have withstood the test of time. We will carefully peel them apart layer by layer to study them further.\"
Due to their fragile state, the leaves are being meticulously monitored for moisture and integrity to prevent further deterioration. Future plans include identifying and quantifying the leaves, as well as analyzing their relationship to other artifacts, such as the fruits found in the same chamber.
This discovery not only sheds light on the botanical aspects of the ancient Chu State but also offers insights into the burial practices and daily life of its people. As researchers continue their work, we can expect more revelations about this historical period and its intricate connections to the natural world.
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Preserved leaves found in 2,200-year-old Chu State tomb in east China
cgtn.com
