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Wooden Architecture

Chinese wooden architecture emphasises the harmonious relationship between architecture and organic life. This, in turn, articulates the cosmic view that man and nature are united.

With well-preserved structures representative of the golden era, Ningbo wooden architecture has become an important branch of Chinese traditional architecture.

With a history of about 4,000 years, the art form thrived throughout the Tang (618-907) and Song dynasties (960-1279) and still continued during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1912) dynasties. Ningbo wooden architecture has inherited the best style borne from the traditional Chinese art, and developed a full-featured regional style of craftsmanship in Jiangnan.

Traditional wooden structures in China can be divided into two categories: large-scale and small-scale woodwork. The former refers to the manufacture of weight-bearing components of wooden frames, and the combination, installation and mounting of wooden frames.

Small-scale woodwork refers to the architectural decorations, which comprise the external finishes and interior installations.

Explore Other Craftsmanship

廣彩

Guangcai

Guangcai was a successful example of East-meets-West fusion and made a substantial contribution to cultural exchanges. It was listed as a national intangible cultural heritage item in China in 2008.

百寶嵌

Baibaoqian

Baibaoqian, literally meaning “hundred-treasures inlay” in Chinese, refers to the intricate inlay work comprised of variegated semi-precious materials, such as jade, agate and pearls, on premium hardwood or on lacquer ware.

螺鈿

Luodian

Luodian, also known as mother-of-pearl inlay, refers to the inlay arts using the finest seashells to create striking contrasts and richly colourful decoration on the surface of lacquerware, wood or metal.

灰塑

Plaster Moulding

Plaster moulding, one of the character-defining elements of Lingnan architecture, refers to the colourful statues and decorations commonly found on roof ridges and gable walls of traditional Chinese buildings in southern China.

紅樓夢

Dreams of the Red Chamber

Dream of the Red Chambers, written by Cao Xueqin in the Qing dynasty, is one of China’s Four Greatest Classical Novels. It’s has long been considered a masterpiece of Chinese literature.

緙絲

Kesi

Kesi, also known as “cut silk”, is a traditional Chinese silk tapestry weaving technique. Kesi adopts a weaving method that passes through the warp and breaks the weft, which makes the work look like being carved and engraved.

描金

Gilt-Decoration

Lacquerware is craft with lacquer applied to the surface of the fetal bone, which is often wood, bamboo, copper or other materials. It is an ancient craftsmanship that is functional and decorative.