Myth ColoringCreature notes · 兕 · sì
Si Coloring Page
Si is a powerful, one-horned, ox-like creature from ancient Chinese tradition, described in the Shan Hai Jing as dark blue-black.
About Si
Origin
Si appears in several early Chinese texts and is given a concise description in the Inner Classic of the South section of the Shan Hai Jing. The creature is placed east of the burial place of Shun and south of the Xiang River. The text describes it as ox-like, dark blue-black, and bearing a single horn.
Appearance
The Shan Hai Jing gives Si three defining features: a body like an ox, a dark blue-black color, and one horn. Later descriptions emphasize its great weight, strength, and thick hide. This artwork interprets it as a massive dark animal with a pale chest, layered mane, curling decorative markings, and one long ridged horn. The moonlit lake, mountain observatory, tiny colorful bird, explorer, and ornamental patterns are modern artistic additions rather than details from the ancient account.
Legend
The Shan Hai Jing places Si within the mythic geography around Shun's burial region but does not attach a long adventure or magical power to it. Other early and later writings remember the animal for its formidable strength and exceptionally tough hide, which was associated with armor. These descriptions sit between observation, distant-animal lore, and mythic imagination; the artwork presents that powerful silhouette as a peaceful giant rather than claiming a single fixed historical form.
Symbolism
Si represents steadfast strength, protection, and calm power. Its single horn creates a clear, memorable profile, while its heavy ox-like body suggests an animal that cannot easily be moved. As a coloring page, the broad body, layered mane, spiral patterns, leaves, water ripples, crescent moon, mountain forms, and small bird invite deep charcoal and cream tones with bright accent colors—or an entirely personal palette.
Finished Artwork
Printable Coloring Page
Print the clean black-and-white line art, or download the A4-friendly PDF for your coloring table.
Coloring Ideas
The color reference is only a starting point. Try a palette that feels right to you: soft pencils for a quiet, storybook look, bold markers for stronger contrast, or colors inspired by a favorite landscape. You do not need to match the finished artwork exactly—this Si coloring page is yours to explore.
Color Preview
Printing Tips
- Print the black-and-white PDF at A4 size or choose “Fit to page.”
- Use crayons, colored pencils, or markers on a paper weight that suits your tools.
- Keep the color guide on screen or beside you for inspiration while coloring.