Asiatic Architectural Analysis

                             Asiatic architectural analysis

After gathering various resources from books/historical articles, I used the information present to create a list of criteria which specifically detailed the recurring visual design factors of ancient Asiatic architecture. Using this list, I can give myself specific criteria in order to accurately draw inspiration from when creating designs. Some of these images were harder to research, as many of the ancient Chinese architectural structures were destroyed long ago. This was predominantly due to the beams and structures being made of timber, which is vulnerable to many of the elements.

Stacking, wooden-framed buildings (Lou):

These are predominantly composed of large column structures, often stacking and replicating many stories high. These are often broken up by pavillions and protruding ledges and rooftops.

The walls in-between these floors are permeated with doors, gates and windows.

Pavillions (Ting):

Chinese pavillions were usually made from wood or bamboo. These were built in various scales and shape, all of which feature large columns and no exterior walls.

Curved awnings/rooftops:

The true purpose of the Chinese tradition of curved roofing is often debated, and is unknown. However, the most accepted theory lies in the historical evidence that Buddhists believed that curves warded off evil spirits, which are imprisoned to move in straight lines. The curved rooftops were a spiritual safeguard to ensure that when evil spirits fell to earth, they would be fired back into the air.

Religious Architecture:

Buddhist architecture often featured large humanoid statues depicting deities such as Bodhisattva. Many asiatic temples had large courtyards filled with Buddha statues.

Character Analysis:

After gathering various resources from books/historical articles, I used the information present to create a list of criteria which specifically detailed the recurring visual design factors of ancient Asiatic clothing and uniform. Using this list, I can give myself specific criteria in order to accurately draw inspiration from when creating designs.

Hanfu (Hanzuang)

This is an essential silken robe worn by most of the Han Dynasty people. 

Usually resting around the knees, the Hanfu consisted of a tunic, an ankle-length skirt and was often tied with a rope or sash. As the class system developed, the length of the Hanfu became a measure of wealth and power. Men and women of higher class would wear longer, loose-fitting sleeves and adorn their robes with jade ornaments.

Above: Character clothing model created to represent the most common styles of clothing throughout Han Dynasty China.

Headwear

Headwear was often a method to show social rank in Han Dynasty China. Each social class had their own styled headwear from soft caps (mao) to more formal headdresses (guan). 

Pattern

The patterned textiles found throughout the Han Dynasty were all created through various means of loom. This means that there are certain significant patterns that repeat throughout a lot of ancient Asia due to this method of production. 

Popular loom patterned used throughout Han Dynasty China

Various gathered reference of textiles used during the Han Dynasty.

Predominant colours are gold, red and orange.