Shi Guo

Shi Guo (石椁), literally "stone outer coffin," refers to a type of burial artifact primarily found in China. It is typically a rectangular, box-like container constructed from stone slabs, often limestone or sandstone. These stone outer coffins encase a wooden coffin (棺, guan) containing the deceased. The shi guo provides an additional layer of protection for the inner coffin and the remains of the interred.

The use of shi guo dates back to the Han Dynasty and continued through later periods, with variations in design and construction reflecting the social status and wealth of the deceased. Elaborate shi guo could be decorated with carvings, inscriptions, and scenes from mythology or daily life. The size and complexity of a shi guo served as an indication of the individual's rank in society.

The practice of using shi guo is part of a broader tradition of elaborate burial rituals aimed at ensuring the well-being of the deceased in the afterlife. Their presence in tombs provides valuable insights into the mortuary practices, artistic styles, and social structures of ancient China.