During week 8 I chose to read chapter 5 of China’s Vernacular Architecture: House Form and Culture by Ronald Knapp. This chapter discussed the traditions used in Chinese homes that sought to bring good fortune to the home, family, and individuals and ward off misfortune. My partner and I compiled a list of the various techniques and traditions used:
- The use of Feng Shui by all social/economic classes for good fortune
- Things buried at construction sight of the home to promote good luck
- Including pictographs in or around the home to evoke good fortune
- Bamboo sieve and grains of rice suspended to evoke fertility and prosperity
- Tossing steamed buns over ridgepole as sign of good fortune
- Calligraphic charms appear on the outside of dwellings to ward off evil figures
- Paper image of Zao Jun (the kitchen god) burned just before new year, sends the god to the Jade Emperor of Heaven to report on family’s behavior over the past year- surveillance and protection, picture rehung yearly
- Symbols of animals and colors, ex: color vermilion associated with happiness, life, giving joy, and summer. Peach, tortoise, deer are representations of longevity found inside and outside chinese homes
It was fascinating to read about all of the techniques and traditions used, and showed how significant these practices were in ensuring good fortune. The process of planning and carrying out the traditions and practices was extremely extensive and dedicated.
During Thursday’s class my group chose to approach a hypothetical tour given surrounding the history of the Old Summer Palace through a more historical lens. We decided we would discuss the history of the palace and its destruction objectively, not placing blame but stating the facts of what occurred. The Old Summer Palace was truly impressive and despite the destruction the site is something that should be seen and appreciated on tours.
Sources:
Knapp, Ronald G. China’s Vernacular Architecture: House Form and Culture. Honolulu: University of Hawaii Press, 1989.
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