Literature and the Arts

What was early Chinese architecture like?

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As a result of wars and invasions, there are few existing buildings in China predating the Ming dynasty (1368-1644). Insubstantial construction, largely of wood and rice-paper screens, also accounts for the tremendous loss. However, evidence of early architectural development is provided by representations in Han dynasty (202 BC-AD 220) bronze vessels, tomb models, carvings, and tiles. One substantial early structure that remains is the Great Wall , begun in the 3d cent. BC. The background of Chinese architecture has been somewhat clarified as a result of the increase of archaeological activity since 1949. Discoveries in 1952 near Xi'an brought to light a complete Neolithic village near Banpo. Two kinds of mud-walled dwellings were foundÑof round and rectangular shapes.

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