The Origins of the Taotie
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 Shang, 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 the bronze vessels, is explained to come from the Chou and Shang dynasties.
The Characteristics of a Taotie
The pattern of all the taotie motifs is similar, with a stylized nose, shaped on the face that is slightly raised. The face is modified with both sides having large, protruding and 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 patterns 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 are placed on the both sides.
Examples of Taotie Patterns
Some examples of the taotie patterns also include the pottery and the jade ware, which are commonly identified among the individuals of the Liangzhu cultural practices. The other examples have been found in various bronze vessels, as well as other artifacts that have been discovered. There is a continuous connection between the taotie patterns that have been applied over the years, and the ones related to the Xia and Shang's taotie patterns.
