Diverse Metals used for Nobles of the Chu State: Research on the Technique and Resource of Metal Artifacts Excavated From Tomb No. M1 in Wangshanqiao Cemetery, Jingzhou

ABSTRACT The alloy composition, microstructure, and lead isotope ratios of the bronze and lead–tin artifacts from Tomb No. M1 in Wangshanqiao Cemetery, Jingzhou, were analyzed to characterize the technical and resource features to reflect the diversity of metals used for the nobles of the Chu State. The results show that the alloy ratio of the bronze vessels from Tomb No. M1 in Wangshanqiao Cemetery is appropriate, with moderate tin content, and non‐forged vessels have higher lead content than forged vessels. There are also various attachment connection techniques, including casting and soldering. The standardization level of the production of other types of bronze artifacts is lower than that of the bronze vessels. In addition, tin, lead, and lead–tin alloys were used to produce artifacts. The metal ores used in the production of the metal artifacts from Tomb No. M1 in Wangshanqiao Cemetery were diverse, indicating the flow of various metal resources within the Chu State.