Study On The Evolution History Of Art And Structure Function For Dougong

Chinese Ancient architecture enjoys a long history and great achievements, and created many architectural miracles. In the process of its development, superior architectural techniques, traditional Chinese culture, and artistic design were combined to make Chinese architecture be one of the greatest architectural systems. Unique timber structure building system is the basic characteristics of Chinese architecture, and the essence of timber structure is Tou-Kung.The tou-kung is a very complex member. A set of tou-kung, is an assemblage of a number of tou(blocks) and kung(arms). Though its base is simply a large square block on the top of the column, there are set into that block crossed arms(kung) spreading in four directions. These in turn bear smaller blocks(tou) that carry still longer arms spreading in the four directions to support upper members in balance. A set of tou-kung may be called a "column set", "intermediate set", or "corner set" depending on the position it occupies.There are three basic stages in all the evolution history of tou-kung. And they respectively are the stage of first step formation, from Chou Dynasty to Six Dynasties; The stage of the combination of art and structure function, from Sui, Tang Dynasty to Sung, Yuan Dynasty; The adornment stage, from Ming Dynasty to Qing Dynasty. The tou-kung can not only Prop up the eaves and enhance the bearing capacity of beam but also form a good ductility node with beam and column to reduce vibration and relief energy. At the same time, it has the aesthetic value and adornment function.In this article, the composition, classification, type and several important conceptions related to types of tou-kung are introduced. Meanwhile, the author explains mainly the origin and evolution history of tou-kung, and analyzes time style and cause of tou-kung. Lastly, structure function and art value of tou-kung are presented in detail.People are expected to be aware of the enormous value of tou-kung and pay more attention to the achievements of traditional Chinese buildings. Therefore, traditional Chinese architecture would be well protected and developed. The paper intends to analyze Chinese traditional architecture from the angle of structure in order to give some hints to establishing Chinese own modern architecture.