What is a taotie? This video answers that question using Shang dynasty bronze vessels. It describes what a taotie is, how it changed over time from an abstract motif to a representational one, and explains where the term originates.

CHAPTERS

0:00 What is a taotie?

0:39 The art historical term taotie

01:17 Where does the term taotie originate?

01:47 Why use a Zhou term?

Learn more

1. Check out our entire glossary of art history! https://www.artsq.org/about-key-terms-ideas-art-history

2. Watch our longer videos about Chinese art, including some about bronze vessels