A World History of Architecture (Marian Moffett, M_250131_091700

Chapter 4: The Traditional Architecture of China and Japan

Overview of Chinese Architecture

• Geographical and Cultural Context

  • China is one of the oldest continuous civilizations, spanning nearly 4000 years.

  • Contains diverse ethnic groups, primarily defined by the Han Chinese.

  • Architectural traditions remained stable until external pressures from the West in the 19th century.

Early Chinese Architecture

• Neolithic Period:

  • Limited archaeological evidence from before 2000 BCE due to occupied sites.

  • Banpo Site: Found remains of circular and rectangular houses.

    • Rectangular Houses:

      • Recessed half-story into the ground, pyramid thatch roof, no walls.

      • Smoke escaped through a gap at the roof apex, protected entranceway.

    • Circular Huts:

      • Side walls of wattle, clay insulation, conical roofs.

      • Internal partitions and screens observed.

Dynastic Influence on Architecture

• Emergence of Shang Dynasty around 1766 BCE.

  • Significant technological advancements such as bronze casting and pictograph writing.

  • Followed by prominent dynasties: Zhou, Han, Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, Qing.

Government Influence

• Imperial Contributions

  • Architecture primarily funded by the state; private and religious organizations less influential.

  • Great Wall of China:

    • Constructed to protect against nomadic invasions, 4500 miles long.

    • Initially rammed earth, buttressed with bricks during the Ming dynasty.

    • Symbol of organized state power and engineering prowess.

Religious Influences and Philosophies

• Indigenous Beliefs: Ancestor worship and respect for nature.

• Confucianism: Emphasized respect for authority aligned with societal structures.

  • City planning and house designs adhered to Confucian principles.

• Daoism: Promotes harmony with nature and influenced garden designs.

Characteristics of Chinese Buildings

• Buildings feature modular design based on the jian unit (10x15 feet).

• Emphasis on axial arrangements and courtyards.

  • Structures often separate but linked through corridors.

• Orientation following cardinal directions to maximize sunlight.

• Materials: Predominantly wood, enhance stability and flexibility; intricate roof structures supported with brackets.

Architectural Legacy and Notable Structures

• Nanchan Temple (782): Contains details on roof bracketing systems.

• Foguang Temple (857): Elevated with extensive overhanging eaves and artistic details.

• Jinci Temple Complex (1023-32): Integrates natural features into architecture along a processional axis.

• City Planning:

  • Kao Gong Ji: Manuscript that outlines ideal city designs, grid layouts with axial symmetry.

  • Examples: Chang'an (6th century) and Beijing’s later layout.

Japanese Architecture

• Japan's geographical diversity influences its architectural styles.

• Cultural influences include Shinto and a profound Buddhist presence.

Japanese Temple Architecture

• Horyuji Temple (670-714): Combines Buddhist temple features with dynamic symmetry.

  • Pagoda Structure: Serves symbolic purposes.

• Todaiji Temple: Known for its massive Great Buddha Hall and unique structural features from Song-Dynasty traditions.

• Phoenix Hall (1053): Displays symmetries and upward lift in design influenced by Pure Land Buddhism.

Shinto Shrines

• Ise Shrine: Modestly designed, characterized by simplicity and ritual reconstruction every twenty years.

  • Embodies harmony with nature and reflects Shinto principles.

Traditional Japanese Urban Planning

• Cities laid out orthogonally, similar to Chinese principles, with streets aligned to cardinal directions.

• Features like the Heian capital (794) reflect traditional values while accommodating trade and government functions.

Japanese Houses and Minka

• Minka Houses: Illustrate regional housing differences, often integrating animal sheltering with living spaces.

• Characterized by modularity, raised floors, and flexible use of space.

• Traditional architecture reflects simplicity, craftsmanship, and natural beauty.

Conclusion

• The interplay of philosophy, societal values, and geographical context shapes the traditional architecture of both China and Japan, highlighting their cultural legacies.