Representation of architecture in Jiehua & Yingzao Fashi : Cognitive Studies on Graphical representation of geometric space

Abstract

This thesis explores the visuo-spatial cognitive processes in the representation of geometric space, through graphical representation of architecture in jiehua and Yingzao Fashi. Jiehua is a genre of Chinese line painting that features architecture, while Yingzao Fashi is a Chinese building construction manual consists of many architectural drawings. They are representatives of artistic and technical representation respectively during the period of Five Dynasties and Northern Song. The objectives of the research are to find out how geometric space could be objectively and systematically represented during this period, and whether this could be illustrated by a shared basis of spatial understanding between different mediums. Graphical representations of architecture in these cases are analyzed by studying their graphical schemata and conventions adopted. These schemata and conventions are then compared and examined in terms of their underlying frames of reference.The findings show that there is a predominant use of allocentric range (i.e. absolute and intrinsic) of frame of reference underlying the graphical schemata and conventions adopted in the two cases. Such consistency presents a possible shared basis of spatial understanding between the two cases.