Investigating the historical tradition of Chinese architectural writing from antiquity to the twelfth century, Chinese Architecture and Metaphor reveals significant and fascinating social and cultural phenomena in the most important primary text for the study of the Chinese building tradition. Unlike previous scholarship, which has reviewed this imperially commissioned architectural manual largely as a technical work, this volume considers the Yingzao fashi’s unique literary value and explores the rich cultural implications in and behind its technical content.
Utilizing a philological approach, the author pays particular attention to the traditional and contemporary architectural terminology presented in the Yingzao fashi. In examining the semantic meaning of the architectural terms used in the manual, he uncovers a systematic architectural metaphor wherein bracketing elements are likened to flowers, flowering branches, and foliage: Thus pillars with bracketing above are compared to blossoming trees. More importantly, this intriguing imagery was shared by different social groups, in particular craftsmen and literati, and craftsmen themselves employed literary knowledge in naming architectural elements. Relating these phenomena to the unprecedented flourishing of literature, the literati’s greater admiration of technical knowledge, and the higher intellectual capacity of craftsmen during the Song, Architecture and Metaphor demonstrates how the learned and “unlearned” cultures entangled in the construction of architectural knowledge in premodern China. It convincingly shows that technical language served as a faithful carrier of contemporary popular culture and aesthetic concepts.
Chinese Architecture and Metaphor demonstrates a high level of engagement with a broad spectrum of sophisticated Chinese sources. It will become a classic work for all students and scholars of East Asian architecture.
desertcart is the best online shopping platform where you can buy Chinese Architecture and Metaphor: Song Culture in the Yingzao Fashi Building Manual (Spatial Habitus: Making and Meaning in Asia's Architecture) from renowned brand(s). desertcart delivers the most unique and largest selection of products from across the world especially from the US, UK and India at best prices and the fastest delivery time.
desertcart ships the Chinese Architecture and Metaphor: Song Culture in the Yingzao Fashi Building Manual (Spatial Habitus: Making and Meaning in Asia's Architecture) to Lusaka, Ndola, Kitwe, Mazabuka, Kasamaand more cities in Zambia. Get unlimited free shipping in 164+ countries with desertcart Plus membership. We can deliver the Chinese Architecture and Metaphor: Song Culture in the Yingzao Fashi Building Manual (Spatial Habitus: Making and Meaning in Asia's Architecture) speedily without the hassle of shipping, customs or duties.
desertcart buys Chinese Architecture and Metaphor: Song Culture in the Yingzao Fashi Building Manual (Spatial Habitus: Making and Meaning in Asia's Architecture) directly from the authorized agents and verifies the authenticity of all the products. We have a dedicated team who specialize in quality control and efficient delivery. We also provide a free 14 days return policy along with 24/7 customer support experience.
Yes, it is absolutely safe to buy Chinese Architecture and Metaphor: Song Culture in the Yingzao Fashi Building Manual (Spatial Habitus: Making and Meaning in Asia's Architecture) from desertcart, which is a 100% legitimate site operating in 164 countries. Since 2014, desertcart has been delivering a wide range of products to customers and fulfilling their desires. You will find several positive reviews by desertcart customers on portals like Trustpilot, etc. The website uses an HTTPS system to safeguard all customers and protect financial details and transactions done online. The company uses the latest upgraded technologies and software systems to ensure a fair and safe shopping experience for all customers. Your details are highly secure and guarded by the company using encryption and other latest softwares and technologies.