This paper compares the images of intact human figures and mutilated figures depicted on Zhou-Dynasty bronzes.Through integrating textual sources and physical anthropology research,three new insights into the Zhou-Dynasty's penal system of foot amputation(yuexing)are proposed.First,both men and women were subject to the punishment,with women not excluded;second,there were two forms of the punishment—amputation of one foot or both feet—with the amputation procedure being standardized to the lower calf,resulting in a higher survival rate;third,individuals with one foot amputated could stand and walk with the aid of a"stick",while those with both feet amputated likely could only crouch or kneel.Mutilated individuals in the Zhou Dynasty held a low social status.They were often tasked with duties such as guarding parks and gates,and some were possibly exiled.They often suffered from inadequate clothing and food,facing severe discrimination both in life and after death,leading to extremely tragic circumstances.
Zhou Dynastybronze artifactsmutilated figuresfoot amputation system
万方数据
维普
