''Shi''

By Crusader1307

In Ancient Chinese Funerary Customs, The ''Shi'' (which translates to ''Corpse'') was a Human impersonator, who assumed the ''role'' of The Deceased during Rituals. The Person dressed and acted as the Living Person would have for the duration of the funerary rituals. Often The Shi would stand behind The Deceased. The practice of using a Shi is recorded as far back as 1,600 BC (Shang Dynasty). Even children had Shi impersonators. For after Funeral Ceremonies (Feasts), The Shi was properly fed and given drink so that The Deceased was ''full'' on their long journey into The Afterlife. Later Historians have cited the use of Shi Masks. These may have been used much later (1st Century AD). In this context, Masks (made of Jade or painted Wood), would be worn by the ''Human'' Shi. The Masks are believed to be ''personifications'' of The Deceased and not necessarily having to resemble them exactly.