Architecture is a global language that shows universal tendencies but, at the same time, individual differences in expression that are rooted in the local cultural traditions of a specific region and time period. The understanding and interpretation of architecture is dependent on the individual cultural background and knowledge of the designer and the builder, but even more so on that of the viewer.
This semester the course will explore the idea of building in imperial China, and will investigate the perception of Chinese architecture in China and in the West over the past centuries.
The goal is to raise awareness that a building can only be designed and understood in combination with its environment and its history.
* History/Historiography of Chinese Architecture: “Old Tales Retold”
The famous novelist Lu Xun (1881-1936) once humorously and sarcastically “retold” the creation myths and historic legends that used to describe how the (Chinese) world began and how the (Chinese) universe was built. His “Old Tales Retold” have revolutionized the way how people see and deal with the living world and the built environment. This seminar will likewise take a fresh look at Chinese architecture—its historical development and its characteristics—and will look at known methodologies from a different angle, to critically reflect upon the architectural forms that characterize China today.
We will discuss the following topics
Class 1 Symbolism and myths: 08.10.2018 09:00-13:00What does ‘building’ mean in China? Construction material and technology have a specific meaning in the history of Chinese architecture. Wood played a dominant and distinctive role hereby which has made it currently the most iconic material of traditional Chinese architecture. We will explore the meaning of building/creating in China in general and of the historical development of various construction systems in different materials in particular, with the goal to identify the underlying reasons for material choice and transfer.
Class 2 Unified diversity: 15.10.2018 09:00-13:00What is “Chinese” architecture? How can we explain the diversity of styles that coexisted in the huge Chinese empire, but at the same time, created a unifying design? What is the common trait and the commonly shared features in Chinese architecture that have not changed over time, and why? We will explore the underlying mechanisms of building; building idea; foreign influence; and the importance of local building cultures in the formation of dynastic government-sponsored styles.
Class 3 The making of history/historiography: 22.10.2018 09:00-13:00Why did people in the past look down upon Chinese architecture, and how should we look at it today compared with European architecture? Books are a powerful tool for disseminating knowledge, and historical literature has shaped the way that people think about Chinese architecture today. We will explore how Chinese and Western scholars have understood and studied the topic of Chinese building traditions, and dismantle long-standing prejudices with the goal to enhance mutual understanding.
Class 4 Discussion: 29.10.2018 09:00-13:00
