China: Architecture

The Chinese used many materials besides wood because much of their land is nearly treeless. The Chinese have good building stone and they use it well. A handsome building of wood may be paved with stone. Pottery is one of the great Chinese crafts, and Chinese tile roofs are famous.

Pagodas in China are richly decorated with sculpture and they tell many many stories. Chinese roof shapes have a grand simplicity. Everywhere the Chinese ideal speaks of solidity, weight and permanence.