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The palaces are the embodiment of the feudal systems of patriarchal clans and tithes, and symbolise supreme imperial power. The most outstanding and prominent examples of this architectural type are the Forbidden City in Beijing and Shenyang Imperial Palace. The former is also the largest and best-preserved timber construction in the world. The principles underlying the planning and design of ancient Chinese palaces are elaborated in detail using these two fine examples as a source of reference.
List of contents
Photographs: The Forbidden City in Beijing.- The Imperial Palace in Shenyang. Text: Historical Records on Palace Architecture From Primitive Crude Houses to Magnificent Buildings: The Primitive Phase; Rise of the Imperial Palace; Wei Yang Palace; Da Ming Palace; Bianliang; Five Capitals. The Forbidden City in Beijing A Bright Pearl as a Crystallization of Wisdom and Hard Toil: Basis for Planning of the Forbidden City; Architectural Design; Architectural Construction and Decoration; Construction Work. The Imperial Palace in Shenyang AJewel of Manchu, Han, Mongolian and Tibetan Architecture: Development of the Capital City and the Erection of the Imperial Palace; General Layout of the Imperial Palace; Design of Individual Palatial Buildings; Architectural Decoration. Appendices: General Plan of the Forbidden City in Beijing; Front Elevation, Section and Plan of the Hall of Supreme Harmony; Timber-Framed Construction of the Hall of Supreme Harmony; Roofing with Glazed Tiles on Hipped Roofs; Roof Forms of Palace Halls; Sumeru Bases; Architectural Details in Various Dynasties; Quing-Style Decorative Paintings; General Plan of the Imperial Palace in Shenyang; Que and the Meridian Gate; Restoration Design of Ancient Palaces; Glossary. Notes on the Photographs: The Forbidden City in Beijing; The Imperial Palace in Shenyang. Maps and Chronology: A Map of Historic Sites of Capital Cities and Palaces; The Forbidden City, Historic Sites and Scenic Spots in Beijing; Chronology of Major Events in the History of Chinese Architecture.
