Da Zhuang · Adaptive: Chinese Architecture · Craftsmanship

Author: Chen Jianzhuang
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-06-01
Features: Architecture is not only a material object for shelter from rain and cold but also a spiritual object that presents human essential power. Therefore, architecture, along with painting and sculpture, is known as one of the three major plastic arts in human society. It is regarded as a symbol of civilized evolution and cultural development due to its unique social nature, practicality, and artistic quality. The architecture of each ethnic group is often referred to as a "written history" in various building materials and a "frozen melody" created through diverse architectural techniques. In the history of world civilization, seven independent architectural systems have emerged, including European architecture, Chinese architecture, ancient Egyptian architecture, Islamic architecture, ancient Western Asian architecture, ancient Indian architecture, and ancient American architecture. Among these, ancient Egyptian, ancient Western Asian, ancient Indian, and ancient American architectures either ceased early on, were not widely spread, or had relatively limited achievements and influence. Only Chinese architecture, European architecture, and Islamic architecture are considered the three major systems of world architecture. Among them, Chinese architecture and European architecture have the longest continuity and the widest spread, creating even more glorious achievements. Thus, in the history of world architecture, Chinese architecture holds a very important position. Chinese architecture does not rely on spatial scale or durability for its foundation. Its construction principles are "grandeur" and "adaptation to form." It can be said that Chinese architectural culture is a culture that points toward real-life and focuses on the present world.