Overview of Chinese Art History

Nov 4, 2024

Chinese Art Through the Ages

Han Dynasty (206 BCE - 220 CE)

  • Confucianism Resurgence:
    • Confucianism flourished; the state founded a university to teach Confucian classics.
    • University had up to 30,000 students.
  • Cultural Contributions:
    • Inventions: Paper, First Chinese Dictionary, First History of China.
  • Art & Tombs:
    • Animal Pen with Figures: Example of Ming-Chi (spirit objects); depicts daily life and social roles.
    • Covered Jar: Represents Sirius (unlawful) and Bo (order); reveals cultural beliefs about afterlife.
    • Tomb Panel: Depicts court life; features Zi Wangmu, aligning with Confucian heaven concepts.

Northern and Southern Dynasties (386-589 CE)

  • Buddhism's Rise:
    • Took root during Northern Wei rule; used for political legitimacy.
  • Cultural Synthesis:
    • Northern Wei integrated southern styles and Indian influences.
    • Example: Statues with Gandhara styles (sunken eyes, elaborate robes).

Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE)

  • Cultural Flourishing:
    • Scholars rose as elites; a period of cultural intermingling.
  • Significant Artworks:
    • Bodhisattva Torso: Influenced by Indian styles; showcases ornate decoration.
    • Night Shining White: Portrait capturing spirit of horses; reflects their sacred status.
    • Phoenix-Headed Amphora: Influenced by Western/Central Asia; symbolizes globalization.

Song Dynasty (960-1279)

  • Artistic Evolution:
    • Distinction between Northern and Southern Song:
      • Northern: Naturalistic portrayals.
      • Southern: Balance between aesthetics and naturalism.
  • Civil Service Influence:
    • Art reflected values of the scholar-official class; metaphorical themes in art.

Yuan Dynasty (1279-1368)

  • Mongol Influence:
    • Adoption and adaptation of Chinese culture by Mongols.
    • Art reflected Mongol and Chinese cultural tensions.
  • Key Artworks:
    • Portrait of Chabi: Demonstrates wealth and cultural reach; use of silk and luxurious materials.
    • Katarina Viglione's Tomb: Evidence of Western Christianity in China; cultural intermingling.
    • Mountains of the Immortals: Depicts Daozong beliefs; nature and afterlife themes.

Conclusion

  • Art as Cultural Reflection:
    • Art expressed religious beliefs, cultural practices, and political climates.
    • Initially for upper classes, later more widespread; reflects societal changes over time.