[Photo/Official WeChat account of Shandong Museum]

This red pottery animal-shaped kettle is a relic of Dawenkou culture. It stands at 21.8 centimeters with a smooth surface, resembling a lovely little animal and has a cylindrical spout at the base of the tail that allows for water to be added and dispensed.

The vessel is sturdy and has a large capacity, making it ideal for heating and holding liquids. It is kept in the permanent collection of Shandong Museum.

Dawenkou culture (6,500-4,500 years ago) was a branch of Chinese Neolithic culture that originated in the downstream of the Yellow River and was primarily located in Shandong province.

The vessel provides evidence of advanced livestock farming and pottery making technology in the Yellow River basin.