Page 44 - BSAM 2015 Q3

very impressive is the varnished, red latticework of the windows, doors and the handrails alongside the cor- ridors between red wooden columns and the covered walkways. The color red is regarded as life-giving and symbolizes summer, the south and wealth.
A Chinese garden without water and rocks (moun- tains) is unthinkable. Rocks and water represent Heaven and Earth, they are the negative and positive principles of Yin and Yang. Taihu rocks of bizarre fan- tastic shape were used for creating an artificial moun- tain in miniature with waterfall.
A zigzag bridge and zigzag corridors keep evil spir- its away and offer varying perspectives—the view changes with every step. Gardens that can be observed from changing angles are a typical feature of Chinese garden design.
Plants often have specific associations with the four seasons. Plum (Prunus) blossoms and willows for example are associated with spring, peonies with summer, chrysanthemum for autumn and pine with winter. Plants also are symbols of particular moral
Top; Artificial mountain of Taihu rocks and waterfall. Light green willows besides the waterfall are a symbol of spring.
Middle left; The zigzag corridors interconnect different parts of the whole complex and offer varying perspectives.
Middle; Small stage where music and dance performances are held.
Middle right; At the right side of the stage are placed so called “bamboo sprout tip” rocks .
Bottom; All buildings
within the garden show characteristic features of Chinese architecture. Elegant wooden latticework is also an element of traditional garden architecture.
42 | BCI | July/August/September 2015