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Wooden bridges span generations
By UNESCO website |
November 14, 2010, Sunday
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Print Edition
Print Edition
WOODEN arch bridges - masterpieces of ancient technology - are famous in Fujian and Zhejiang provinces along China's southeast coast.
The traditional design and techniques require core technologies of "beam-weaving" and building mortise and tenon joints. A sound bridge requires an experienced woodworker's understanding of different environments and structural mechanics.
The carpentry is directed by a woodworking master and implemented by other woodworkers. The craftsmanship is passed on orally and through personal demonstration, from one generation to another by masters teaching apprentices or relatives within a clan in accordance with strict procedures. These clans played an irreplaceable role in building, maintaining and protecting the bridges.
As carriers of traditional craftsmanship, the wide covered arch bridges function for both transport and communication. They are important gathering places for locals to exchange information, entertain, worship and deepen relationships and cultural identity.
The cultural space created by traditional Chinese arch bridges encourages communication, understanding and respect among people.
The tradition has declined however in recent years due to rapid urbanization, scarcity of timber and lack of space, all of which combine to threaten transmission of bridge technology and the spans' survival.
Wooden arch bridges are included on the National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage administered by the Department of Intangible Cultural Heritage of UNESCO in 2009.
The traditional design and techniques require core technologies of "beam-weaving" and building mortise and tenon joints. A sound bridge requires an experienced woodworker's understanding of different environments and structural mechanics.
The carpentry is directed by a woodworking master and implemented by other woodworkers. The craftsmanship is passed on orally and through personal demonstration, from one generation to another by masters teaching apprentices or relatives within a clan in accordance with strict procedures. These clans played an irreplaceable role in building, maintaining and protecting the bridges.
As carriers of traditional craftsmanship, the wide covered arch bridges function for both transport and communication. They are important gathering places for locals to exchange information, entertain, worship and deepen relationships and cultural identity.
The cultural space created by traditional Chinese arch bridges encourages communication, understanding and respect among people.
The tradition has declined however in recent years due to rapid urbanization, scarcity of timber and lack of space, all of which combine to threaten transmission of bridge technology and the spans' survival.
Wooden arch bridges are included on the National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage administered by the Department of Intangible Cultural Heritage of UNESCO in 2009.
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