1. Embalming the body.
After Cixi passed away, the palace maid and eunuch who was responsible for the funeral stuffed a priceless night-time pearl into her mouth. This night-time pearl stayed with Cixi in the mausoleum for twenty-three years. The thief took out the tart. Before the Luminous Pearl was taken out, Cixi's long-dead corpse was still lifelike, without any decay or damage. But after it was taken out, the corpse quickly decomposed. This just proves the role of this luminous pearl in antisepsis. The most common method of embalming in ancient times was to inject mercury into the corpse to achieve the purpose of embalming. It is not surprising that Cixi cared so much about her appearance and figure that she came up with this method of embalming.
2. Prove status.
Cixi controlled the Qing government for many years, and even the young emperor became her puppet. Her high status can be said to be due to her extravagant life. He was so extravagant when he was alive, and he naturally maintained this style after his death. Therefore, he ordered the palace maid and eunuch in charge of the funeral to stuff night pearls into his mouth to continue his luxurious and decadent life. And at the same time, he declares to future generations his unique identity, respected status, and sense of glory above all others.
3. Take away your favorite treasures.
Cixi’s control of government affairs not only improved his status, but also made him rich in financial and material resources. As the saying goes, money is something external to oneself. It will not be taken away in life or death, but Cixi has a special liking for the Night Pearl and chose it to be buried with her. Later, he was taken away by Sun Dianying when he robbed the tomb, and he benefited from it. However, he did not keep it for himself, but used it as a favor to please various bosses. This luminous pearl only stayed with Sun Dianying for a short time. It fell into the hands of Soong Meiling and was used as shoe decoration, and then disappeared. Come to think of it, this is extremely embarrassing and regrettable!
As for why Cixi placed night pearls in her mouth, the above is the most recognized answer by the public. It has a long history and many things have become confusing. We can only make small speculations based on this.