Old Beijing Architecture · Colorful Paintings (Beijing Pattern Legacy Series)

Author: Tian Xu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-01-01
Features: Color painting, also known as "shicai," "caihuì," or "caise," is primarily applied to the exposed wooden structures under the eaves of traditional Beijing architecture, such as dougong (bracket sets), efmang (beam ends), and yanqian (eave rafters). The color paintings in these areas have high brightness and saturation, with strong contrasts between colors, creating a visual jump effect. This ensures that the painted areas under the shade do not appear dull due to lack of light.
In another type of color painting, the exposed surfaces of the wooden structures under the eaves of buildings, such as columns, dougong, doors, and windows, are decorated. The colors used here are simpler, often featuring basic patterns like huiwen (interlocking patterns), ruyiwén (lotus patterns), yunqiwen (cloud patterns), and geometrical patterns. Sometimes, only parallel horizontal lines are painted.
What should be noted is that the color paintings on columns, doors, and windows are mostly limited to (partial depiction), with the rest of the surfaces primarily painted with lacquer. The colors are determined by the official rank and the functional use of the building, usually limited to a few colors like red and green. This color treatment, with its combination of simplicity and complexity, creates a striking contrast that is both brilliant and pleasing to the eye.
If the building is a palace or a temple, gold, bronze, and other decorative elements are added in addition to the color paintings. These embellishments enhance the grandeur of the architecture, fully reflecting the noble status of the imperial family and the high social standing of officials.