The Art of China

Chinese art is visual.  This is true whether it is ancient or modern.  It originated in China and is still in practice in China by Chinese artists.  One examples of early Chinese art reveal a lot about the artist's work in the Chinese tradition.  The first example is the famous Qin sculptures.  The Terracotta Army is located inside the mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor.  It consists of more than 7,000 life size tomb terra cotta figures.  The figures are of ancient warriors and their horses.  They are entombed with the first Emperor of Qin, Qin Shi Huang, about the year 210-209 B.C.  This is a very impressive and old scuplture which brings a strong sense of nationalistic pride to Chinese people.

When a person is looking at any piece of Asian art, it is important to try to understand the essence of the art itself.  If one can distinguish the similarities, due to the art's origin, then it will be easier to understand the things about it that are also unique.  In much of Asian art appreciating the Chinese tradition, along with its historical domination, is the first step in beginning to spot authentic pieces for decoration.  Even though China may be the original source for much of Asian art, it is by no means the end of it.  To track the rest of the story is an even larger investigation with many roads to follow!

Harlan Urwiler

Please feel free to check out my website at:  http://www.myorientalgallery.com/.