Chinese History Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Chinese History - Assignment Example Chinese wooden construction features one of the fundamental principles characterizing classical Chinese architecture, that is, the use of JIAN module. The latter bears some form of semblance of modular prefabrication concept used in modern architecture. Carpenters in traditional Chinese architecture used this module as a standard unit for construction of all buildings. The JIAN constituted a rectangular space characterized by the repetition of adjoining structural frames. Unlike the Chinese Script modular system, which, although old, can be described as contemporary architecture, Chinese wooden construction is much older. This system has been in existence for multiple millennia (Ledderose 103). A principal similarity, however, lies in the fact that both modular systems make use of repertoire, or repetitive utilization of standard units, in order to develop the whole. Both systems also constitute methods of mass production in the architectural realm, which apply intricate mathematical formulae and codification of measurement systems, to foster efficiency of large-scale construction. The distinctive difference is that Chinese Script is a form of architectural decoration, whereas Chinese wooden construction revolves around the creation of an actual building. In regard to development or creation, the Chinese Script begins with the basic elements or single strokes. These are the simplest units in a series, and constitute the character â€Å"transformation† (hua) and the character â€Å"supreme† (tai). These building blocks grow in complexity from the single stroke level, through the intermediate level, to the complex level featuring complete units of constituent characters. These components, also known as modules, make up interchangeable building units, which can be placed together in various combinations, to eventually create written characters or â€Å"Chinese Script†, which is still evident in modern Chinese buildings (Ledderose 10).