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The Mythic Elements in Chinese Architecture
Concepts from feng shui geomancy and mythic elements of daoism are usually present in the construction and layout of Chinese architecture, from common residences to imperial and religious structures.
"Gold Brick" Technique of Suzhou Imperial Kiln
Gold bricks produced by the imperial kiln in Suzhou in eastern Jiangsu Province are not actually made of gold. The smooth, shiny bricks are big and square. They got their name from their quality, the tedious manufacturing process and the high cost involved.
Chinese Temples
Temples symbolize the long history and rich culture of China, and are regarded as valuable art treasures. There are many different religions in China, such as the Buddhism, Christianity and Islam introduced from other regions, as well as Taoism and Confucianism, the native-born religions.
Taoist Architecture
Taoism is a religion native to China. Laozi, (also spelled Lao-Tse, Lao Tsu, Lao Tzu, etc.) a famous thinker living in 6th Century BC, established this philosophy and came to be regarded as the father of Taoism. It formed mainly during Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220).
Chinese Buddhist Architecture
The development of Chinese Buddhist architecture can be traced back to the introduction of Buddhism. The main Buddhist architectural items include temples, pagodas, and grottos. Buddhist architecture is regarded as a great art treasure where sculpture, calligraphy and painting combine.
Imperial Garden Architecture
The imperial garden architecture mainly has three characteristics: stylish, super splendor scales and harmonious unity of human with nature. Among the countless amazing imperial gardens of the Tang Dynasty (618-907), the most significant one is the Huaqing Palace, where the romantic story of Emperor Xuanzong and his concubine Yangyuhuan took place.
Imperial Mausoleum Architecture
Architecture of the imperial mausoleum is another important component of Chinese imperial architecture, revealing the imposing majestic manner of royalty. Chinese emperors hoped to continue their luxurious imperial life after death. Stately mausoleums hence were built to satisfy their greed.
Imperial Palace
The long Chinese feudal society saw the construction of numerous palaces, built to satisfy the emperors' extravagant lifestyles and protect the stateliness of their reign. Served as the venue where public affairs were dealt with and where the royal family lived, the construction of imperial palaces emphasized on the splendorous appearance and regular layout.
Fengshui
Feng means wind and Shui means water. Fengshui is a Chinese traditional discipline which studies the way in which human beings co-exist in harmony with nature. In ancient times, our Chinese ancestors were aware of the existence of Qi in nature, the natural rules discerned by them during their long labors.
Chinese Architecture and Culture
Architecture and culture are tightly related to each other. In a sense, architecture is the carrier of culture. Styles of Chinese ancient architecture are rich and varied, such as temples, imperial palaces, altars, pavilions, official residencies and folk houses, which greatly reflect Chinese ancient thought - the harmonious unity of human beings with nature.