Primitive Characters of Liangzhu Paintings and Symbols

This book mainly focuses on the roles of engraved symbols and ornamentation in Liangzhu culture. It categorizes the engraved symbols discovered in Liangzhu culture as means of ideographical expression and decoration, aspects that are explored in detail. Further, the engraved symbols and ornamentation are subdivided in terms of certain similarities, including the dragon and bird systems. A separate chapter is especially designed to help readers appreciate the typical paintings and symbols in selected objects and vessels. In this way, the book seeks to analyze and generate a particular formula so as to explore patterns in the thinking of Liangzhu’s people, thus deciphering the spiritual code of the Liangzhu world.

Chapter I Study Overview on Symbols

1. Symbols and Characters

2. Review on the Discovery and Study of Engraved Symbols of Liangzhu Culture

Chapter II Engraved Symbols for Ideographical Expression

2. Pictorial Images

Chapter III Engraved Ornamentation of Decoration

1. Symbols of Dot Ornamentation

2. Decorative Engraved Ornamentation of Dragon and Bird Systems

Chapter IV Appreciation of Classic Paintings and Symbols

1. Jar with Lugs on Both Sides Unearthed from Chenghu Lake, Suzhou

2. Jade Bi with Engraved Symbols Unearthed from Anxi, Yuhang

3. Introduction on Several Pieces of Stoneware with Engraved Ornamentation

Conclusion

Xuefei Zhu, specializing in neolithic archaeology, has worked at Zhejiang Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology as a researcher since 2017, during which time she has been actively engaged in the archaeological exploration of Liangzhu City. Her major articles include “Disintegration of Xiyin Culture and Generation of Remains of Late Yangshao Culture” and “Restudy on Color Pottery of Qinwangzhai Culture at Dahecun Historical Site”; she has also published the book Archaeological Study on Color Pottery during Yangshao Period.