Kitchen God
The "Kitchen God" is a figure in Chinese folklore, often associated with the Zao Jun, the God of the Kitchen. He is believed to oversee the household's cooking and food preparation, ensuring that meals are nourishing and that the family remains harmonious. Traditionally, families honor him by offering sacrifices, especially during the Lunar New Year.
In many households, the Kitchen God is depicted as a small statue or image placed near the stove. It is customary to clean his image and offer him sweets before the New Year to ensure he reports good behavior to the Jade Emperor, the supreme deity in Chinese mythology.