Oriental patterns carry the cultural code of thousands of years. They are not only an expression of art but also a witness to civilization. From China's cloud and thunder patterns to Japan's Yuzen dyeing, from Arab vines to Persian miniature paintings, this article will take you through time and space to interpret the stories behind these classic patterns.
I. Ancient Times (5000 BC - 200 BC)
China: The Geometric Code of the Neolithic Age
Painted pottery patterns (Yangshao Culture) : Fish patterns and frog patterns symbolize the worship of reproduction
The patterns on bronze wares (Shang and Zhou Dynasties) : The Taotie pattern (mysterious animal face) and the cloud and thunder pattern (swirling lines) represent power and theistic authority
Jade patterns (Liangzhu Culture) : Divine human and animal face patterns, symbols that connect heaven and earth
2. The influence of Mesopotamia and Ancient Egypt
Lotus petal pattern: Introduced to China via the Silk Road, it evolved into an element of Buddhist art
The Tree of Life: Continuing in Persian carpets and Xinjiang brocades
Ii. The Classical Period (200 BC - 1000 AD)
The Han and Tang Dynasties of China: The Convergence of the Silk Road
Cloud and air patterns of the Han Dynasty: Flowing lines on lacquerware and brocade, expressing the idea of ascending to immortality
The Tang Dynasty's Baoxiang flower: integrating the Indian lotus and the Greek acanthus pattern, it became a symbol of Buddhist art
The linked pearl pattern (introduced by the Sassanian Persians) : A cluster pattern in the Dunhuang murals
2. Asuka, Japan - Heian Period
Tang grass pattern: Originating from the Chinese scroll grass pattern, it is used for decoration in Buddhist temples
The geometric arrangement of noble clothing (such as the Seven Treasures pattern and the standing stream pattern)
3. The Rise of the Islamic World
Arabesque: mathematically infinite extension, avoiding figurative worship
Persian miniature paintings: interwoven with flowers and calligraphy, found in the handwritten version of "The Book of Kings"
Iii. The Modern Era (1000-1800)
1. China during the Song and Ming Dynasties: The Literati's Interests and Secularization
Porcelain patterns of the Song Dynasty: blue and white entwined lotus, Three Friends of Winter (pine, bamboo and plum)
Ming Dynasty brocade: Dragon and Phoenix Patterns (Imperial power), Hundred Sons Picture (Folk customs)
2. The Edo period of Japan
Yuzen Dyeing: Flowers, birds, wind and moon on small-sleeved kimonos (such as cherry blossoms, flowing water)
Ukiyo-e waves: The classic blue and white curves in Katsushika Hokusai's "The Great Wave off Kanagawa"
3. The luxury of the Ottoman Empire
Turkish Iznik porcelain: Cobalt blue and coral red tulips
Indian Mughal patterns: Symmetrical Paisley patterns
Iv. Modern and Global Impacts (1800 - Present)
The Western craze of Orientalism
In 19th-century Europe: Van Gogh copied ukiyo-e, and the Art Nouveau Movement drew inspiration from Tang Dynasty grass patterns
Art Deco: Thunder Patterns and sunbeams in the buildings along the Bund in Shanghai
2. Eastern Genes in Contemporary Design
Brand application
Hermes "Chinese style" silk scarf
The landscape artistic conception in Issey Miyake's folds
Digital Age: The Liyue pattern and national trend illustrations of the game "Genshin Impact"
V. Core Philosophy of Oriental Patterns
Nature worship: Plum blossoms, orchids, bamboo and chrysanthemums symbolize character
Circular universe view: The balance between mandala and Yin-Yang Taiji
The unity of craftsmanship and faith: Islamic patterns avoid idols, while Chinese patterns "have meaning in every picture"
Conclusion
Oriental patterns are not only decorations but also the DNA of civilization. From Neolithic earthenware jars to NFTS in the metaverse, they are always telling the story of a dialogue between humans and nature.