Chinese craft design excelled in the manipulation of geometric space and reached its highest point in the design of window lattices on Chinese houses. Long recognized as an important folk art, window lattices have been generally neglected as an art form and this book is the first work on the subject since the 17th century. Fortunately, it is also the definitive work on the subject, and though no book can present a complete coverage of Chinese lattice, this book is a great classic study and an incredibly rich source of design for Westerners. More than 1200 designs are shown here, arranged in a clear system of classification that includes 22 areas of related design — borders, brackets, tail pieces, and so on. The lattices are classified according to one basic figure or concept, and the hundreds of beautiful design variations fall into only 26 categories: parallelogram, octagon or octagon square, hexagon, single focus frames, double focus frames, triple focus frames, quintuple focus frames, no focus frames, wedge-lock, presentation, out-lock, in-out bound, the Han line, parallel waves, opposed waves, recurving wave, loop-continued, like swastikas (a Buddhist symbol), unlike swastikas, central Ju I, allover Ju I, S-scroll, U-scroll, rustic ice-ray, symmetrical ice-ray, and square and round. Each category is introduced in sections at the front. In addition, there is usually a short description for each design and every design is designated by name, location, and approximate date of construction. Professor Dye spent over 21 years studying and copying lattices all over China, and because of the ravages of time and changing cultural values, this collection can probably never be duplicated. Balanced, intricate, sometimes asymmetrical, usually harmonious, these lattice designs present a wealth of material for the Western commercial artist, textile designer, pattern-maker, and craftsman. Reflecting their Chinese heritage, these designs are universal and can be used almost anywhere.
From dainty butterflies to bold dragons, these 48 gorgeous images of traditional motifs from Chinese art and culture include dainty blossoms, realistic and fanciful animals, and an array of kite designs."
Recognized internationally for their subtlety, delicate lines, and enduring beauty, artistic Chinese designs have long been regarded as more than simple ornamentation. The distinctive motifs represented in this superb collection of 218 royalty-free patterns are typical of a vital art tradition that is experiencing a worldwide renaissance in popularity. Selected from various illustrated booklets published throughout the People's Republic of China and in Hong Kong, these motifs are derived from a vast selection of Chinese artifacts ? dating from prehistoric pottery to the present day. Many of the patterns, which come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and styles, were originally conceived for decorating textiles, ceramics, metalwork, woodcarvings, basketry, and cut paper, in addition to carved stone, tiles, and other architectural elements. Commercial artists and graphic designers will find an abundant supply of useful borders, frames, and corners, as well as intricate floral displays that include peonies, lotus, chrysanthemums, pine, bamboo, and plum blossoms. Also available in this unique collection are real and fabulous Chinese animals, cloud and water motifs, geometric and abstract patterns, ideographs, and more.
269 modern paper-cuttings from Mainland China: horses, pandas, butterflies, flowers, fish, peacocks, monkeys, phoenixes, lanterns, vases, landscapes, other traditional and modern motifs -- printed solid red, black, blue or green. Often amount to silhouettes. Oriental feeling, decorations for graphics, various crafts.
Skillfully adapted from authentic motifs, 31 traditional designs depict a pair of peacocks amid lush blossoms, a serpent-like dragon with scaly skin, an idyllic waterscape revealing a gazebo and pavilion, lilies and foliage in an eye-catching circular configuration, and other richly detailed illustrations. Pages are perforated and printed on one side only for easy removal and display. Specially designed for experienced colorists, Chinese Designs and other Creative Haven® adult coloring books offer an escape to a world of inspiration and artistic fulfillment. Each title is also an effective and fun-filled way to relax and reduce stress. Previously published as Chinese Designs.
Knotting, "the joining of two cords," is an old and revered art form in China and an integral part of Chinese life. Since ancient times, Chinese knots have been used for a variety of practical and decorative purposes: to record events, aid in fishing and hunting, wrap and tie items, embellish personal attire, jewelry and fashion, ornament other works of art, and communicate. The intricate knot work and magnificent color combinations not only lent elegance to everyday objects, or a touch of gaiety and enchantment but were an aesthetic expression of Chinese folk symbolism, expressing wishes for good fortune and wealth or the joys of love and marriage. In craft book Chinese Knotting, author Lydia Chen first traces the origins, history, and symbolism of this fascinating craft, before taking the reader through the fundamental elements necessary for tying Chinese decorative knots--the materials, implements, and main processes. Step-by-step instructions are then given for the 11 basic knots, which provide the building blocks for the 14 compound knots-combinations and variations of the simple knots-that follow in the next section. The final section presents 41 knotting projects of varying difficulty. Detailed instructions, clear diagrams, and color photographs, combined with an exciting assortment of creative applications, will help readers discover the relaxation, artistic satisfaction, and beautifully personalized ornamentation that Chinese Knotting can offer.
This book is for readers to learn something about Chinese culture by looking at art. It describes decorative art on pottery, bronze ware, and many other art works and artifacts throughout Chinese history. It also tells the stories behind the decorative art.