During which dynasty did Chinese aristocrats first use a tinted mixture to color their nails?

The correct answer is Shang. During the Shang Dynasty, which lasted from around 1600 to 1046 BCE, there is historical evidence that aristocrats began using tinted mixtures to color their nails. This practice was a symbol of status and affluence, as specific colors were associated with nobility and power. The use of nail colors in this context highlighted the cultural significance of beauty and personal grooming among the elite in ancient Chinese society.

The other periods mentioned are notable for different historical developments. The Han Dynasty, for example, is recognized for advancements in commerce and scientific achievements but is not specifically tied to the introduction of nail tinting among aristocrats. The Qin Dynasty had a significant role in establishing the foundation of a universal Chinese writing system and state practices. In the Tang Dynasty, which came later, nail art did evolve, incorporating more sophisticated designs and colors, but it was not the initial period when aristocrats first started the practice.