Zen Tao
Quiet objects, rooted in Eastern wisdom.
ZENTAO is a contemporary brand devoted to handcrafted objects inspired by Eastern philosophy.
We work with natural materials and traditional techniques, creating pieces that speak through restraint, balance, and presence — not symbolism or spectacle.
What We Believe
A Quiet Philosophy
At ZENTAO, we believe objects shape the rhythm of everyday life.
Eastern wisdom has long emphasized balance, awareness, and harmony with nature — not as belief systems, but as ways of living. We approach this philosophy with respect and restraint, translating it into material form rather than abstract concepts.
Each object is designed to feel grounded, calm, and enduring — meant to be worn, held, or placed into daily life without explanation.
Our Materials & Craft
Material as Meaning
We work primarily with natural woods, stones, and handcrafted cord — materials chosen not for decoration, but for their inherent character.
Rather than altering or embellishing, we allow each material to remain close to its natural state. Grain, density, texture, and subtle variation are preserved as part of the object’s identity.
Craftsmanship at ZENTAO is slow and intentional.
Not every piece is identical — and that is precisely the point.
The People Behind ZENTAO
J.Li
Practitioner of Buddhist cultivation & Eastern philosophy
J.Li has spent many years studying how ancient Eastern philosophies can be applied in grounded, practical ways to modern life.
His approach emphasizes clarity, self-awareness, and personal responsibility — understanding Eastern wisdom not as mysticism, but as a long-standing cultural tradition rooted in observation and lived experience.
At ZEN TAO, J.Li provides the philosophical foundation of the brand, ensuring that each creation reflects calmness, balance, and quiet intention.
Jingzhen Liu
Operations & Cultural Integrity
With a professional background in organizational management and long-term strategy, Jingzhen Liu brings structure and discipline to ZENTAO’s operations.
Her deep study of classical Taoist philosophy led her to appreciate its emphasis on natural order, balance, and inner freedom. Over the years, she has built close relationships with traditional artisans and cultural practitioners.
Jingzhen oversees brand operations, artisan collaboration, and cultural integrity — ensuring that tradition is approached with respect, clarity, and responsibility.
Ni Xu
Design & Handcrafted Creation
Ni Xu is a professional designer and inheritor of Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage craftsmanship, with long-standing experience in traditional handmade work.
Her design philosophy centers on simplicity, proportion, and emotional resonance. She believes handcrafted objects are not decorative symbols, but vessels of intention and care.
At ZENTAO, Ni Xu translates traditional aesthetics into contemporary forms, creating objects meant to bring calm, warmth, and quiet joy into everyday life.
Our Approach
Designed for Presence
ZENTAO does not create objects for display alone.
Our pieces are meant to be lived with — worn close to the body, held in moments of pause, or placed quietly within personal spaces.
We do not assign promises or outcomes to our objects.
Their value lies in material honesty, thoughtful craftsmanship, and the space they create for stillness.
A Way, Not a Claim
ZENTAO is not a belief system.
It is not a statement of identity.
It is a quiet way of engaging with material, time, and intention — shaped by Eastern wisdom and expressed through objects.