Colors of the world 4

The Ancient Traditions of China



The look most often associated with China is brightly colored and heavily ornate, and derived from the Manchu-ruled Qing dynasty (1644 - 1911). This style is elaborate, yet warm, and uses lots of rich, vibrant color. It was first seen in Europe in the 1600's, and swept Europe as the "Chinoiserie" craze of the 18th century. Prior to the Qing dynasty was the Ming era (1368-1644), which today is seen as a zenith for furniture and home decoration. This beautiful style is currently making a strong comeback in the hands of contemporary designers.



The Ming style is the antithesis of the Qing style—clean and simple, spare and elegant, totally uncluttered and precisely symmetrical. The smallest decorative details are carefully considered in relation to the architectural whole.
Interiors. Color symbolism is very important in Chinese decor. Black represents the yin, or female, and is connected with rejuvenation. Red, the yang, or male, is associated with self-expression. Red is also a symbol of good luck.
Green symbolizes nourishment and springtime. White is associated with purity and immortality. Yellow represents the Earth, and is also an Imperial color.



Qing palettes are usually based around red and yellow, gold, turquoise, black and light green. The Ming look is more controlled—reds and blacks, dark woods, whites, stone or wood floors, perhaps with polished metals and lacquers. Other uses of color are always carefully balanced. Ming is very well suited to contemporary decorating styles.
Tip: Yin and yang are fundamental to the Chinese interior. Contrast darkness with light, solid with soft, and rough against smooth to create balance.

Behr