A peek behind the masks

A state of curiosity

Who, exactly, were these people?

For researchers, the closest answer may be the ancient state of Shu, which lasted for more than a millennium until its fall to the powerful Qin state during the Warring States Period (475-221 BC). Shu state left many legends but the relevant historical recordings are insufficient.

An academic project was launched to gain a better and more comprehensive understanding of the ancient Shu state (Sichuan is still sometimes colloquially called Shu today). If it were not for that project, the abundance of artifacts in the news today would probably still remain unknown.

Foundations were also recently found nearby, Lei says.

"That helps us to have a basic understanding of the layout of the sacrificial zone," he says. "Our next step is to unveil their ritual system."

A similar strata of objects were uncovered in the newly found pits as the two that were dug in 1986. Small items of bronzeware were at the bottom with larger bronze items above, and the upper surfaces were paved with ivory.