What was the practice of independent bone burial associated with?

The practice of independent bone burial is closely associated with the preservation of noble remains. This method was historically utilized to manage the bones after a period of decomposition, particularly in cultures that had hierarchical social structures where noble or important individuals were often afforded special treatment even in death. The independent burial of bones would allow for the respectful treatment of the remains and was sometimes conducted after the flesh had decayed, reflecting societal values around heritage, lineage, and the significance of the deceased's status.

In this context, independent bone burial served as a way to honor the bodies of those who held a high social rank, often leading to rituals that emphasized the status of the deceased and ensured their memory and legacy persisted within the community. This practice symbolizes the effort to preserve the dignity and memory of noble individuals, differentiating it from practices associated with those of lower social status, such as paupers, or contemporary practices like the storing of ashes, which are distinctly different in focus and execution.