History of Chinese Art

(4 Credits)

This course surveys art, visual culture, and material culture in China from the Neolithic to the end of the 19th century. Approximately one-third of the lectures will be organized based on the different mediums used in art, such as ceramics, jades, bronzes, and sculptures. Some lectures are designed to contextualize art into separate functions, such as for funerary and Buddhist rituals. The rest classes stress the difference in patronage, such as imperial art and literati art. Particular attention will be paid to understanding objects within their original social and cultural contexts. We will also relate individual artworks to a broad cultural background, highlighting the influence of various religions, philosophies, and politics. The goal of this course is to familiarize students with the diverse body of artwork produced in premodern China, as well as to consider the role art has played in representing or negotiating identities, religions, history, and politics. Students will be trained in various art historical methodologies and will deepen their knowledge about one aspect of Chinese art history through a group curatorial project. Prerequisites: None Fulfillment: CORE HPC/IPC; GCS Elective Chinese Media, Arts and Literature; Humanities Major Other Introductory Courses (18-19 Survey Courses).