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Journal of Chinese
Architecture and Urbanism Landscape esthetic characteristics

style. The landscape highlights the esthetic and folk integration of folk esthetics with the sacred world in the
cultures of Daoism in response to the demands of the time. temple design embodies the pioneering and innovative
Figure 6 displays the architecture’s interior decorations, spirit of Qingxu Temple.
brick carvings, roof decorations, and garden adornments. The architectural decorations here boast a rich and
The landscape’s decoration themes emphasize meaningful diverse array of decorative themes. Moreover, they are
content and expressive forms. Similarly, Daoist cultural influenced by the Daoist esthetic concept of “embracing
themes often depict the figures through stories from Daoist simplicity and plainness.” The use of natural or light colors
ideologies. For example, there are depictions of the Eight rather than bright colors on the exterior walls imbues
Immortals crossing the sea, searching for the Blue Gauze the temple with a simple and plain style (Kuang, 2021).
Cap, facing tigers alone, and slaying the Dragon Prince. Furthermore, the wooden structure is mostly black.
Furthermore, Daoist cultural themes portray the Daoist However, influenced by the distinctive architectural style
immortals worshiped in Qingxu Temple (Yuan et al., 2022). of Lingnan, the sacrificial buildings of Qingxu Temple have
The story of “Liao Chong ascending in flight” describes the employed bright hues for decorating and embellishing key
protagonist’s deification at the Real Lord Hall. Through his parts, such as the roof. Consequently, the architectural color
story of attaining immortality and teaching the profane palette of Qingxu Temple is characterized by light colors
people, the Daoist aspiration to help himself and others as the keynote, with vibrant decorations on specific parts.
attain immortality is conveyed. The combination of local natural and simple architectural
Besides Daoist cultural themes, many Lingnan local decorative art with the simple yet elegant Daoist temple
decorative motifs have been incorporated into the design, gardens embodies the Daoist esthetic concept of “great skill
including flowers, fruits, plants, folk production, living in the use of plainness” (Daqiao ruozhuo, 大巧若拙). The
scenes, the 24 Filial Exemplars, the 12 Zodiac Animals, concept suggests that truly exquisite and beautiful things
and auspicious birds and beasts. These mythical creatures do not necessitate excessive embellishment.
have been inspired by ancient Chinese legends, such as
the Two Dragons Fighting for the Pearl, and the Turtle 3.2.3. Social customs of polytheism and the pursuit of
and Fish on the roof of the main sacrificial building. The practicality and usefulness
decorations reflect the best wishes, beliefs, and esthetic The Daoist culture and folk beliefs of Mount Jingfu’s
preferences of the people in Lingnan. The creative landscape are intricately interwoven, exhibiting the

Figure 6. Decoration integrated with different esthetic cultures found in Qingxu Temple. Source: Photos by the authors

Volume 5 Issue 2 (2023) 7 https://doi.org/10.36922/jcau.407