CHINESE ARCHITECTURE Flashcards
(39 cards)
The individual building is commonly composed of three parts:
a. podium
b. main body
c. pitch roof
what is the structural system
TIMBER
A bracket system used in traditional Chinese construction to support roof beams, project
the eaves outward and support the interior ceiling. Usually found between the top of a column and a cross
beam.
The number of layers of these bracket structures also depended on
the importance of the buildings.
DOU-GONG
what are the physical aspects of a chinese architecture:
- structural system (timber)
- bracket system (dou-gong)
- bold ornamentation
- the structural system is exposed to the outside in an elaborate manner
what are the 3 principles in chinese architecture
-TAOISM
-CONFUCIANISM
-BUDDHISM
teaches individualism and transcendence through direct connection with the
natural world. “Harmonizing with nature”
Taoism
- incomprehensible natural force which all events in the universe
unfailingly follow
Tao
emphasized in strict adherence to social conventions and rituals for
the the proper functioning of the state
Confucianism
A path of practice and spiritual development leading to insight into the true nature of reality
Buddhism
Decoration reflects Taoist pursuit of luck and fulfillment, long lifespan and enclosing into the fairyland.
Resort to nature topography to build towers, pavilions, lobbies and other garden structural units, decorated
with murals, sculptures, steles to entertain people, fully interpreting Taoist philosophy of nature.
Taoism in Art and Architecture
were set up on the central axis while other religious structure on the two sides.
MAIN HALLS
like dining hall and accommodation were placed at the back of the complex
- Usually, on the northwest corner of the complex, Lucky Land to Meet God will be located.
ANNEXES
which all structures surround the Danlu (stove to make pills of immortality) in the
center according to Bagua’s position request.
Bagua Style
It means Balance and symmetry
YIN-YANG
CHARACTERISTICS OF CONFUCIANISM IN ART AND ARCHITECTURE
- The main structure is the main axis; secondary structure are positioned as two wings on either side
- Curved roofs
- Balance and symmetry
- Feng shui traditional concepts of five elements that were believe to constitute the universe.
- Number nine is especially applied in imperial architecture, odd numbers were considered masculine
CHARACTERISTICS OF TAOISM IN ART AND ARCHITECTURE
- Decoration reflects Taoist pursuit of luck and fulfillment, long lifespan and enclosing into the fairyland.
- TRADITIONAL ARCHITECTURAL LAYOUT
- BAGUA STYLE
traditional concepts of five elements that were believe to constitute the universe.
FENG SHUI
is especially applied in imperial architecture, odd numbers were considered masculine.
Number nine
Significance of colors: (CONFUCIANISM)
-for the sole use of the emperor
YELLOW
Significance of colors: (CONFUCIANISM)
-on the palace buildings
GREEN
Significance of colors: (CONFUCIANISM)
generally used on doors (happiness and solemnity)
RED
SYMBOLISM:
emperor
Five-clawed Dragon-
SYMBOLISM:
empress
Phoenix
SYMBOLISM:
for the rest of the imperial family
Four-clawed Dragon
