What was one contribution of Franz Weidenreich to the Zhoukoudian research?

Franz Weidenreich’s significant contribution to the Zhoukoudian research lies in his meticulous and hyperrealistic drawings of Homo erectus fossils. These illustrations were crucial in documenting the physical characteristics and anatomical details of the fossils found at the site. Weidenreich's drawings not only helped in understanding the morphology of these early hominins but also played an important role in communicating the findings to the broader scientific community. His artwork provided a visual representation that complemented the scientific descriptions, making the information more accessible and aiding in the recognition of the importance of the Zhoukoudian site in the study of human evolution.

In context, while other activities related to discovering fossils, excavating sites, or creating museums are fundamental in archaeological research, Weidenreich’s focus on documentation through art was key to advancing the study of human ancestry associated with the Zhoukoudian fossils.