Bioarchaeological reconstruction of social identity among satellite tombs in Shangzhaoyao Qin mausoleum, China

Interpretation of social identity for individuals buried in peripheral locations in Warring States Qin mausoleums (after c . 325 BC) is largely based on considerations of associated artefacts and distance from the central tomb; bioarchaeological evidence is limited. This article interrogates osteological indicators of lifelong health and activity patterns in individuals buried between the boundary ditches of the Shangzhaoyao Qin mausoleum, near Xi’an, China, providing a bioarchaeological reconstruction of their social identities. Female bias, poor health and participation in high-intensity daily activities together suggest identities associated with menial, miscellaneous labour and reflect the rigid hierarchical system of the Qin state.