The taotie consists of designs that are found on the bronze vessels used by the Chinese communities in carrying out diverse rituals. The first pattern of the taotie was identified on bronze wares, which was in the dynasty of the early shan, and its popularity has been found to be growing over the years. There are various designs that have been developed to suit the changes in the market, but the images used on the vessels do not have an immense difference compared to the ones that were used in the ancient times. The most ordinary taotie applied on bronze vessels is explained to have been from the Chou and Shang dynasties, and they consist of beast heads without bodies.
The format on all taotie motifs is similar, with is a stylized nose being shaped on the face that has been slightly raised. The face is modified with both sides having protruding and large whorled horns, ears, brows, and eyes. Over the years, the pattern of the taotie has been found to be strikingly symmetrical, with square spiral and circular spiral patterns being used to adorn the background. However, there are some vessels that are decorated with a guard and Kui drags that are symmetrical in shape, and they are placed on both sides.
Some examples of the taotie patterns include the pottery and the jade ware, which are commonly identified among individuals of the Liangzhu cultural practices. The other examples have been found in various vessels made of bronze as well as other artifacts that have been developed. There is a continuous link between the taotie patterns that have been applied over the years and are related to the Xia and Shang’s taotie patterns.
