Science is revolutionizing the art of embalming

Technological advancements are changing the way practitioners use their traditional skills

Xu Jun, an embalmer for 21 years at the Baoxing Funeral Parlor in Shanghai, has been recognized as one of the 94 Shanghai Craftsmen for 2017 for his superior skills in a profession he sees as "noble" and "rewarding".

"This job involves not only being a guardian of dignity for the departed, but also providing comfort for their family members by making the deceased look peaceful at the funeral," the 46-year-old embalmer said.