Applying traditional Buddhist lotus patterns to Chinese architectural decoration

Abstract

The lotus flower is a traditional Buddhist motif and is one of the decorative elements of Chinese architecture. Studies that examined many sites for architectural heritage conservation in China revealed that traditional Buddhist lotus decorative elements from different periods employ various surface decoration techniques and themes as well as varying forms of expression for such decorative elements. The current study compares the traditional Buddhist lotus decorative elements with the surviving Chinese heritage conservation objects and analyzes their influence on Chinese architectural decoration. The study investigates the relationship between the inspiration and application of the lotus pattern as decorative elements in the integration of architecture and culture. It uses the documentary method of analysis, fieldwork, and comparative analysis of lotus pattern motifs on Buddhist temple architectural sites from different periods. The researchers intend to reveal the links between fashion design and the structure of the lotus pattern decorative elements, to provide designers with methods and style details of design. China has many sites for architectural heritage conservation, but the key is how to get motifs and be inspired by motifs from traditional Buddhist monastery and ancient Chinese architecture. This article provides an example of the fusion between fashion design and a heritage theme in which lotus pattern decorative elements, as influenced by carved motifs found in Chinese architecture, are nearly unchanged. Finally, we discuss the use of traditional Buddhist lotus motifs in Chinese architectural decoration as a basis for the transmission and promotion of traditional Chinese culture with the lotus motif decorative elements.

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