Module 11

Art in Asia – Chinese Art

Prepared by: Maria Casandra S. Argonza

Duration: Week 15 (3 hours)

Method: Online or Modular

Objectives:
At the end of the lesson, the students are able to:
1. Identify key influences to Chinese art; and
2. Appreciate the different Chinese Art.

Through trading relationships among Asian countries, they started sharing their culture and belief systems. China has a rich
history when it comes to culture and arts and Japan was initially influenced by them but later on, opened themselves to the Western
world, allowing for the fusion of East and West. Both countries’ artworks are concrete manifestations of their cultural identity. Philippine
art was a product of several periods on history and depending on the context, art in our country has served various uses from everyday
living to expression of belief systems.

Chinese Art

× China is the forefront of economic development and it has been at the leading edge of development especially in terms of
cultural development.
× In the past, the Chinese were able to produce primitive artworks. Excavated pieces show bronze vessels with intricate designs
dating from 2nd millennium BCE.
× During the Zhou Dynasty, culture flourished tremendously. It was a parallel period with that of Greece’s Golden Age and metal
works befitting the royal family were produced in abundance. The material Jade was also popular for artworks.
× Confucianism was the dominant way of life, they believed that in order for society to work, one must learn how to sympathize
to others. Such principles became evident in most artworks depicting everyday life and how these social interactions come to
play.
× Because of interactions with Western missionaries from India, Indian models inspired a lot of Chinese artists for a few
centuries. By the start of the 6th century, Chinese art highlighted their very own culture. Paintings depicted magical places and
realms from imagination with Chinese influences. It is also believed that a great power coming from a higher spirit is the one
moving the artist and his/her work together.
× Most paintings were done in monumental styles and artists also used sharp brushstrokes to provide detail in their works.
× Porcelain is one of the commonly used items to make decorative ornaments. Moreover, artifacts from excavation sites show
intricate Chinese works.
× Artistry is passed down from generation to generation and like most Chinese art, the focal point in these vases depict a central
theme, nature. They believe man is an integral part of nature ensuring that there is a certain balance in it.
× But part of their culture is emphasizing a form of social life, giving importance to communities and interactions among people.
In addition, some of the common overarching themes of said art include daily activities, war and violence, death, and nature.
× Chinese artworks are infused with a lot of symbolisms. Art becomes an avenue for the artist to convey his reflection of the
things he/she is aware of.
× Chinese show respect for their ancestors and departed relatives. Moreover, most of the departed ancient Chinese were
placed in either gold or bronze vessels, depending on their social status.
×
These are some examples of Chinese Arts