Tao Tie | Pao Xiao
TaoTie Beast
TaoTie is a monster in ancient Chinese mythology, also known as PaoXiao. Because of its greed for food, people who love to eat are also commonly referred to as "old gluttons".
《Classic of Mountains and Seas》
In the mountains of Guo Wu, there is a beast with the appearance of a sheep's body and a human face, with eyes under its armpits, tiger's teeth, and human claws. Its sound is like that of a baby. It is called the PaoXiao, which eats humans.
According to folk legends, Taotie symbolizes war and is associated with slaughter during wars. "During the Yin and Shang Dynasties, before the formation of ritual and music culture, from the Yan and Huang periods to the Yin and Zhou periods, there were large-scale tribal wars, accompanied by slaughter, capture, plunder, enslavement, oppression, and exploitation. The bronze ware of the Shang Dynasty symbolized violence and martial prowess, and the man-eating Taotie could serve as such a symbol."
TaoTie Motif
The Taotie motif, also known as the beast face motif, is a unique elongated and coiled pattern in China, commonly found on bronze ware. The typical features of the Taotie motif include a frontal animal head with symmetrical pairs of horns, brows, ears, as well as a nose, mouth, and chin. Some have elongated bodies, limbs, claws, and tails on both sides.
FAQ
What does the taotie symbolize?
- Gluttony and Greed: This is the most common association. The TaoTie's fearsome appearance is seen as a reminder of the dangers of excess, particularly in regards to food and wealth. In modern Chinese, calling someone a TaoTie is an insult, implying they are excessively greedy.
- Apotropaic Symbol: Some believe the TaoTie served as a protective emblem, warding off evil spirits with its fierce visage.
- Status Symbol: Because TaoTie adorned bronze vessels used by the elite, it signified the owner's high social class.
What is the power of TaoTie?
The TaoTie possesses a formidable physique, extremely high armor, and is renowned for its ability to devour.