This weeks reading concentrated on Chinese, Korean, and Japanese Art and architecture. This particular region has history that can be dated back much farther than the rest of the world. Because of China’s size the region seemed to avoid outside influence and invasion but endured its share of inner turmoil. The history of that region is broken down into distinct dynasties and the art is influenced not only by the dynasties but also by the dominant religions and philosophies during time. Today, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese culture are visible in modern pop culture.
Jade is a stone that the Chinese consider to be very precious. As far back as 5000 BCE Jade carvings have been found in China. Since it is such a difficult stone to work with it is unknown how the ancient Chinese were creating such intricate patterns. Then there were what is considered the three bronze age dynasties. During this time there is the development of bells which were calibrated to have two separate tones. A great discovery from this time, buried and discovered accidentally was a ceramic army. The army was intricately made with each warrior wearing armor and having individual faces. During the third dynasty the Silk Road was established. Silk was used for clothing and also as a medium for paintings and scrolls. Trade in silks extended as far as western Europe and into India which led to the introduction of the Buddhist religion into China.
Buddhism was a major religion of China. Other major influences were Confucianism and Daoism. The religions and philosophies were based on striving for balance of the mind and body and also with relationships between people and nature. At this time there is an emphasis on landscapes and showing the insignificance of man in relation to nature. Other images display filial piety or wifely devotion. The landscapes don’t have a single point of view like western images but instead are unrolled on scrolls and have a sort of omniscient view. Buddhism spread into Korea and Japan, who in turn changed the art in a way to add their own signature to the work.
Through historical findings, China, Korea, and Japan were incredibly advanced in their part of the world. Today we are still benefiting from their technology. The whole world uses fireworks to celebrate which originated in China. Chinese fast food, Korean BBQ, and Japanese sushi are dining necessities in American cities. Japan and Korea are main producers of electronics and automobiles. East Asian architecture is mimicked in gardens and temples all over. Both the young and the old alike enjoy Japanese anime and manga novels and films. A fad from not too long ago was the tattooing of Chinese characters on men and women and decorating your house using Feng Shui. So it is quite clear that the long history of China, Korea, and Japan is not only significant but also its presence around the world in the modern culture of today.
References:
Living With Art Getlein, Mark. 2013. Mcgraw-Hill Companies, NY
Art History Sokstad, Marilyn. 1995. Prentice Hall, NJ
Cristal Cassel 