Then & now: finite arts
The Chinese approach to construction recognises that all buildings - however sacred - must succumb to time, writes Jason Wordie
Inside many traditional Chinese buildings, a fir pole forms the ridge of the roof, with a strip of (usually hemp) cloth dangling from the main beam. This cloth goes up and under the pole, and hangs down from either side.
Usually decorated with tassels, embroidery and auspicious motifs, this piece of fabric is not merely decorative; it is a tell-tale, incorporated to indicate when the roof requires replacement.
The cloth will hang there, steadily decaying, for decades.
It may sway tenuously for years by a few fraying threads, but when the last tattered remnant flutters to the floor, it is finally time to act.
This ultimate decay signified that the roof must be replaced – and very soon. If it is not, there is a strong likelihood that within several months – possibly much less – a catastrophic roof collapse will occur.
Sensible owners closely monitor the tell-tale’s deterioration, and make appropriate financial arrangements for the cost of eventual repairs. The old-school builders certainly knew what they were doing.
As craftsmen made things that were of use to others, in terms of social status they ranked above merchants and other businessmen who, despite their wealth, were seen to contribute less to society. While artisans were usually illiterate (or nearly so), their skills and expertise contained echoes of Chinese philosophical approaches to the world.