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<p>This study examines meat resource utilization among agricultural communities during the Western Zhou period (1046–771 BCE), focusing on animal remains excavated from the Hengshui Cemetery in the region of the state of Peng. Through zooarchaeological analysis, we identify the primary species used for dietary and ritual purposes, revealing the strategic role of animal husbandry in supporting the subsistence and ceremonial needs of Zhou society. Pigs and sheep, predominantly raised by the elite, were the primary sources of sacrificial offerings, highlighting the symbolic and nutritional significance of these animals. Our findings suggest that organized livestock management ensured a steady supply of young animals for consumption and ritual, which reinforced social status within the Peng community. In contrast, limited animal resources in commoner graves indicate socioeconomic disparities, with lower classes likely supplementing their diets through hunting and fishing. By exploring these burial contexts, this study provides insights into the intersection of animal resource distribution, agricultural practices, and social hierarchy, emphasizing the role of meat resources in Zhou social organization and cultural expression.</p>

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Animal resources consumption patterns among agricultural communities during the Western Zhou period: evidence from the Hengshui Cemetery

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2025年7月28日

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  • Lin Ban,
  • Xiaohong Lv,
  • Yaoting Xie,
  • Wuyu Zhou,
  • Chunxue Wang

摘要

This study examines meat resource utilization among agricultural communities during the Western Zhou period (1046–771 BCE), focusing on animal remains excavated from the Hengshui Cemetery in the region of the state of Peng. Through zooarchaeological analysis, we identify the primary species used for dietary and ritual purposes, revealing the strategic role of animal husbandry in supporting the subsistence and ceremonial needs of Zhou society. Pigs and sheep, predominantly raised by the elite, were the primary sources of sacrificial offerings, highlighting the symbolic and nutritional significance of these animals. Our findings suggest that organized livestock management ensured a steady supply of young animals for consumption and ritual, which reinforced social status within the Peng community. In contrast, limited animal resources in commoner graves indicate socioeconomic disparities, with lower classes likely supplementing their diets through hunting and fishing. By exploring these burial contexts, this study provides insights into the intersection of animal resource distribution, agricultural practices, and social hierarchy, emphasizing the role of meat resources in Zhou social organization and cultural expression.