Symbolic, Architectonic And Artistic Decorations In Structural Elements In Traditional Architecture In Taiwan

Abstract

Architectural styles and design concepts reflect socio-cultural background and technical achievements of the period when the building is constructed. Due to differences in location, periods, and building types, traditional architecture embodies distinctive features and artistic accomplishments. Some are notable because of their size, some because of their special exteriors, some because of their exquisite architectonic details, some because of their craftsmanship and some for cultural reasons. Affected by historical developments, traditional architecture in Taiwan before the mid-nineteenth century is basically Minnan (Southern Fujian) style. In Minnan-style architecture, almost every building reveals its unique design in formal, spatial, constructional and structural aspects. This paper will firstly introduce the basic aspects of Taiwanese traditional architecture and then illustrate how symbolic, architectonic and artistic decorations are expressed in structural elements in traditional architecture in Taiwan and become one of the main characteristics.