The most noticeable feature of this creature, which is found in the traditions of China, is it's enormous head, cavernous mouth, and serried rows of dagger-like teeth. Not surprisingly, it's name can be translated as 'Glutton', and it's appetite is legendary. It can take several forms, including that of a human being and a tiger, but whatever creature the head represents also dictates the body under it. Thus a T'ao Tieh with the head of an animal has the foreparts of that animal; but in each case it has two hind parts and two stomachs. Sometimes it is painted on the inside of dishes to warn diners of the effects of overindulgence.
Deadline for all T'ao Tieh action to be sent to magicalcreaturesproject@gmail.com: Monday, July 11th, 2011
