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Hongshan Culture

A Neolithic culture of northeast China known for elaborate jade artifacts and ceremonial architecture suggesting early religious-political hierarchy.

The Hongshan culture declined around 2900 BCE and was succeeded by the Lower Xiajiadian culture (via the transitional Xiaoheyan culture) in the western Liao River region of northeastern China.

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Further reading

• The Origins of Chinese Civilization David N. Keightley and Noel Barnard · 1983

  Covers the range of early Chinese cultures including northeast China.

• The Archaeology of China Dr Li Liu · 1963

  The current standard synthesis of early Chinese archaeology, covering Yangshao, Hongshan, Longshan, Liangzhu, and Erlitou as China moves toward state formation.

Sources

• Wikipedia, 'Hongshan culture' (Q1195031)