Research On Artistic Symbols Of Chinese Traditional Auspicious Figures-panchang Figures (the Art Of Rope)

According to the concept of Panchang Figures--a twisted long knot, it is originated from the art of rope and named as Chinese Knot in the modern terms. Study of the shape, structure and types of Pan-Chang figures shows its metaphorical indication that it stands for admiration for life and expectancy for fortune and a worldly aesthetic reflection on wares and decoration. It is a decorative pattern based on ropes and knots independently existing in Chinese traditional patterns.With the widespread and development of Buddhism, starting from the Wei-Jin and Southern-Northern Dynasties, Pan-Chang knot has been widely applied in kinds of wares and wall-paintings. With different background of times and cultures, it has gradually became one of the important decoration patterns in Chinese arts , with connotations integrated with the Chinese traditional thoughts. Pan-Chang means circle, brightness and wisdom in Buddhism. Folk created auspicious pattern in a wish for harmony between husbands and wives, fertility and honors in the way of symbolic metaphor and homophonic. As per the shape of Panchang Figure, absorbing the Chinese traditional aesthetic and western culture, typical Pan-Chang shape pattern such as square Pan-Chang, round Pan-Chang and compound Pan-Chang, is created, and developed in image and paradigm , and with different kinds of material and art form.From the perspective of the culture connationof Pan-Chang figure, its history, its deep extension in Buddhism as well as the folk's preference for Pan-Chang figure has been completely described. The crossed analysis of style development in all ages helps to make clear its cultural changes. The discussion concerning the types of Panchang figure is expected to get a conclusion on the development of the types and structure and a consistent information system for Panchang figures. To sum up, Panchang is acknowledged to be of value in national distinction. At the same time, our research is expected to provide some theoretical references for the understanding of Pan-Chang figure and theoretical reflection for the designerin the future.