Rooted deeply in Chinese culture going back to the Neolithic age and first finding expression during the Shang and Zhou dynasties as a monster mask on bronze ritual vessels, the legend of the taotie still manifests in modern cutlery on eating utensils and plates. The Taotie (gluttonous monster) consumes permissively and according to myth eventually human flesh. Punished by the gods for his overindulgence, as a warning to others the gods took away his body and jaw so all he can do was eat constantly, leaving nothing but a head and gaping mouth.

The artisans of Dragon King conceived this new take on this ancient warning in the form of the Taotie Jian. The classic zoomorphic head motif is featured embossed on the pommel and the guard. The 37 3/4" blade's 7" ricasso (3/8" thick at base!)  reinforces the overall strength for powerful thrusts and blocks. The 12 1/2" wood core handle is cord wrapped which allows for an easy grip for a 51 1/2" long sword. A black lacquered scabbard with matching accents secures this beast.

COMPARISON OF THE TAOTIE JIAN TO A STANDARD LENGTH (29" Blade) JIAN..

About Dragon King

The famed artisans of Dalian have returned to show to the sword world what quality, craftsmanship and ingenuity can produce under the superlative leadership of a true avant-gardist. By the guidance of master designer, Frenchie Jin, the next generation of cutlery enthusiasts will taste the steel of the fabled golden age of swords. 

Ever the student of the arts, Frenchie Jin combined the processes of contemporary mechanical construction and modern science with the classic arts, ancient aesthetics and philosophical imagery to produce many of the legendary pieces known today. Having designed over 600 different cold weapons in his 20-year career, to say that he and his team have mastered and advanced their craft would be an understatement. 

The Dragon King brand does not represent a company that just manufactures products but embodies a group of artisans who have been adeptly trained to duplicate ancient skillsets that can't be automated by machines on an assembly line. Not every blade that is forged becomes a sword. Not every casting that is poured becomes a component of a greater piece. The goal for improvement and innovation starts every day under Frenchie's guidance. 

Not confining their talents to sword making alone, the Dragon King team plies their abilities also to the production of knives, jewelry and other high end art-crafts. And not just in steel alone, these artisans craft wood and leather among many other materials and alloys.  Our journey together has only begun, but the fruits of that labor are coming to bear.

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