A preliminary study of zhi jia cooking stands in Neolithic sites of Northeast China

Data concerning zhi jia cooking stands in Neolithic sites of Northeast show that they are mainly distributed in the Second Songhua River Basin, the East Liaohe River Basin, and the West Liaohe River Basin, and date 4500–3000 BC, with similar shapes and characteristics found across their distribution area. From the situational observation of the unearthed position, morphological characteristics, utensils analogy, and analysis of associated utensils, it is inferred that the zhi jia were mainly used to support oblique-shaped pottery: this combination of objects could be used to dry and bake food. When these implements were used for cooking, two zhi jia would be placed on both sides of the hearth, and then the oblique pottery was placed on top, resulting in a larger surface for achieving better heat transference and improving the efficiency of cooking. In addition, some of these artifacts may be related to sacrificial rites.