Tree-Ring Dating of the Reshui-1 Tomb in Dulan County, Qinghai Province, North-West China

摘要: Tuyuhun and Tubo were two important states that thrived in north-western China during AD 311-900 parallel with the Han Chinese dynasties of Sui Tang periods. The Reshui Tomb Cluster located Dulan County north-eastern Tibetan Plateau is an cultural relic Tuyuhun-Tubo age. official excavations tombs regarded as top events archaeology 1980s 1990s China. Reshui-1 largest one among area. Since its excavation, there have been debates on whether owner tomb belonged to or ethnicity. Therefore, accurately dating has a critical place studying histories. We collected 7 discs 11 increment cores Qilian juniper (Juniperus przewalskii Kom.) from exposed fallen beams roof Reshui-1Tomb. lengths 16 tree-ring records are between 69 152 years. Based previously developed master chronology using samples eastern Qaidam Basin, calendar dates specimens determined by COFECHA program visual procedure. average inter-series correlation dated sample series 0.696, indicating good quality cross-dating. year outermost rings 715 for 4 out 9 cores. Moreover, ring-width variations consistent existing chronologies region. presence late-wood indicated was completed late early 716, which means finished This date provides direct evidence archaeologists determine owner’s ethnicity identify Tomb.