Architecture Constructed on the Plains

Another type of architecture is mostly found on the plains or in the valleys. In such an architectural complex a group of buildings surround a great hall. The Jokhang Temple in Lhasa ushered in a new construction style on the plain.

These constructions are topped and surfaced with gilt bronze decorations and the corbel arches feature the statues of nude and dressed human figures plus animals. In front of the great hall there is a pillar in near-Roman style; on the roof ridges thereare bronze towers, upside-down lotuses and lotus bottoms and so on, which can also be found in Indian and Nepalese temples; besides, the eaves of the great hall feature such things as semi-circus clay sculptures of the human face with the lion’s body.

This type of constructions usually found on the plains manifested the artists’super skills in that they incorporated the diverse arts and styles of different ethnic groups, thus exuding special charm.

hancheng

See author's posts