Pagoda
Often overlooked while many current studies focus on the Western world of architecture, the Chinese development and construction of the pagoda lend knowledge and innovation. Starting at the most fundamental parts of all buildings, pagodas are built on frames and foundations of timber¹. The general consensus regarding timber structures is often that its longevity will be shortened by natural disasters, wood rot, and settling/shifting of the ground beneath. The Chinese mode of constructing pagodas proves that while legitimate concerns, they do not yield an end of bifurcation. Instead, this defies our perspective on wood foundations and framing; proving that over the course of thousands of years the buildings do not only end up as ruins. The secret lies in their jointing technique of perfect puzzle pieces. If need be, replacements of these segmented parts are easily installed and the overall space can transform to serve another function². A timeless characterization of the Chinese culture, the ornamental roof of a pagoda does indicate importance, but also allows for various uses. Among its most impressive properties, the timber structure of a pagoda is widely studied for its ability to withhold earthquakes.
Pagodas emerged fairly late in Chinese history, only becoming the forefront of the architecture once Buddhism began to trickle through the continent³. The design style came from India, and were initially housing the remnants of Buddha along with revered ancestors. Tying into the tradition of China, we know that great emphasis is placed on family, honor, and respect of ancestors. Following this line of thought, it is clear as to why such grand and distinct structures are given the responsibility of housing ancestor remnants and relics. Not only do the high and towered roofs or stupas indicate a reaching towards the sky, but also proved great for passive ventilation for years to come. |
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Original drawing by Alexandria Szabo of a longitudinal section through a pagoda
"Pagoda." Ship Ahoy - Wiktionary. Accessed December 08, 2018. https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/pagoda.
¹Klijn, J. "Ongoing 2b/3a Inhibition In Myocardial Infarction Evaluation." Http://isrctn.org/, 2012. doi:10.1186/isrctn06195297.
²"Http://ljournal.ru/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/a-2017-023.pdf." 2017. doi:10.18411/a-2017-023.
³Wei, Ran. Buddhist Buildings: The Architecture of Monasteries, Pagodas and Stone Caves. New York: CN Times Books, 2015.
²"Http://ljournal.ru/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/a-2017-023.pdf." 2017. doi:10.18411/a-2017-023.
³Wei, Ran. Buddhist Buildings: The Architecture of Monasteries, Pagodas and Stone Caves. New York: CN Times Books, 2015.