Ἐπιστάτης

A bronze tripod fulfilling the function of a pot-stand; but others [say that is] a clay Hephaistos, seated at the hearths, as guardian of the fire. But some [say that it is] a long timber with pegs on it, from which they hang the cooking equipment. But Kallistratos [says it is] the timber set on the brazier. But others [say it is] a moulded support over the fire made of wood [standing] on the hearth, as they imagine Hephaistos at the furnace. Or a timber having hooks, from which they hang the cooking equipment. But some [say that it is] a bronze tripod, on which they set the cauldron and heat it from underneath. But some [say that it is] a clay statue near the hearth. Aristophanes in Birds [writes]: "[you two] taking the full armor hang it for good fortune in the kitchen near the epistates."