At an ancient site, the unearthing of a red coffin takes a startling turn when a mysterious liquid starts seeping out, prompting an urgent evacuation by the bewildered archaeological team.
How was the ancient tomb discovered?
In 2003, quarry workers working at the base of Mount Turki in Tongliao City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region (China), unexpectedly discovered an attractive red stone. This unusual finding caused the workers to worry that they had unearthed an ancient tomb, leading to a halt in the mining operations. The person in charge of the quarry quickly reported the incident to the local authorities.
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Upon receiving the report, the authorities sent archaeologists to the site promptly. After an initial examination, the archaeologists concluded that the site was very likely an ancient tomb.
The shape of the tomb
Based on the shape and location of the tomb, it likely belonged to a noble from the Liao Dynasty (905 – 1125). When the coffin was extracted, a clearly carved phoenix could be seen, with each line sharply detailed, indicating that the tomb’s owner was highly esteemed and led a prosperous life, possibly even being a member of the royal family, not just nobility.
However, what puzzles experts is that despite the coffin’s intricate craftsmanship and the tomb’s large scale, the overall arrangement is quite simple, with only a few burial items and even lacking any inscriptions. This leaves experts uncertain whether this was indeed the tomb of a noble.
The danger of the coffin in the tomb
To further investigate the owner of the tomb, archaeologists decided to transport the entire coffin to the laboratory for examination to determine the identity of the body inside. Inside the red coffin lay the remains of a woman wearing a crown, whose garments, though decayed, still faintly showed luxurious patterns.
However, while experts were conducting the examination, a mysterious liquid suddenly began to seep from the body, quickly forming a small stream. At that moment, one of the experts suddenly screamed, “Run away!” causing everyone to panic and rush out of the laboratory. Could there be a dangerous curse or some mysterious event unfolding?
Once everyone reached a safe location, the expert explained that the liquid flowing from the body was likely mercury. Given the relatively well-preserved state of the body, it indicated that a significant amount of mercury had been used. In ancient times, pouring mercury into coffins was a method used to preserve bodies intact, and this practice was typically reserved for nobility or royalty.
Who is the owner of the tomb?
Based on various speculations, archaeologists believe that the person inside the coffin might be Princess Jialu Zhaigu, the daughter of Emperor Jialu Abaoji and Empress Shulü Bing. Historical records indicate that Princess Jialu Zhaigu and her husband participated in a rebellion but failed. Due to committing a grave crime, she was not buried in the royal tombs when she died; however, owing to her noble origin, a tomb was still constructed for her, but it was internally empty and simple.
However, some experts also suggest that the remains might belong to a Khitan noblewoman, based on reconstructions of her appearance while alive.
How dangerous is mercury?
Today, thanks to modern science, the toxicity of mercury is well understood. Mercury primarily affects the central and peripheral nervous systems. Inhalation of mercury vapor can harm the nervous, digestive, and immune systems, and is toxic to the lungs and kidneys, potentially leading to death. The inorganic salts of mercury can corrode the skin, eyes, gastrointestinal tract, and kidneys.
Why did ancient people use mercury for embalming?
Today, we all know that mercury is toxic, but in ancient times, people knew little about mercury and considered it a valuable item. The ancients may not have recognized mercury’s toxicity, but they did know that it could inhibit the growth and reproduction of bacteria and microorganisms, preventing them from invading and decomposing the body.
Moreover, the ancients might have observed that mercury also helped deter tomb raiders. This metal was seen as a valuable item that represented the nobility and wealth of the deceased.
Reasons for mercury poisoning in modern times
Due to the hazardous nature of mercury, ordinary people in modern times cannot use it casually. However, people can still inadvertently be exposed to this metal, possible causes include:
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Digestive exposure from consuming natural foods that contain inorganic mercury or organic compounds such as longfin tuna (albacore), swordfish, sharks, king mackerel, and tilefish.
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Airborne exposure from inhaling evaporated mercury, which is the most dangerous form and highly toxic.
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Direct contact exposure through the skin or from the surrounding environment (due to occupational hazards or living near exposure sources), particularly from industrial raw materials containing mercury components such as thermometers, manometers, pressure gauges, float valves, mercury switches, relays, and the production of fluorescent bulbs and other devices.
The dramatic discovery of the red coffin and the mysterious liquid serves as a powerful reminder of the unpredictability and potential dangers inherent in archaeological explorations. This incident not only underscores the importance of caution and preparedness in the field but also highlights the enduring allure and mystery that continue to draw us to uncover the secrets of our past.
