What is a 'que' in the context of traditional Chinese architecture?

A 'que' is a freestanding, ceremonial gate tower found in traditional Chinese architecture. These structures were used to create ceremonial gateways for tombs, palaces, and temples throughout pre-modern China.

When did the 'que' first emerge, and what was its primary function throughout pre-modern China?

The 'que' was first developed during the Zhou dynasty (1046–256 BC) and served as ceremonial gateways for tombs, palaces, and temples until the Qing dynasty (1644–1912).

During which Chinese dynasty did the use of 'que' gateways reach its peak?

The use of 'que' gateways reached its peak during the Han dynasty (202 BC – 220 AD).

How are 'que' towers often found today, particularly in relation to Han dynasty tombs?

Today, 'que' towers are frequently observed as components of architectural ensembles, specifically along the spirit ways (*shendao*) at the graves of high officials from China's Han dynasty. Some 'que' are also found in front of temples.

What makes the surviving stone 'que' from the Han dynasty particularly valuable?

The surviving stone 'que' from the Han dynasty are considered valuable relics because they are richly decorated and represent the sculpture and architecture of that significant historical period.

What is the prevailing theory regarding the original form of the stone 'que' structures familiar today?

It is believed that the stone 'que' structures we see today are stone reproductions of freestanding wooden and/or earthen towers that were originally placed in pairs in front of palace, temple, and government building entrances during the Han dynasty and possibly the preceding Qin dynasty.

What was the original function of these freestanding wooden or earthen towers before they evolved into tomb gateways?

These freestanding towers originally served as markers for the symbolic boundary of a palace's or temple's premises, having developed from gate towers that were integral parts of buildings or city walls.

Are there any surviving examples of the original wooden or earthen 'que' structures?

No, none of the original freestanding wooden or earthen 'que' structures that stood in front of buildings have survived. However, depictions of buildings with such towers can be found on extant brick reliefs within Han dynasty tombs, such as those in Yinan tombs in Shandong.

How were 'que' typically positioned along the spirit roads of tombs during their peak popularity?

Along spirit roads, 'que' were usually placed in pairs, with one tower standing on each side of the road.

What was the relative cost of a 'que' tower compared to other tomb components during the Han dynasty?

During the Han dynasty, 'que' towers were typically the most expensive component of a spirit way. A single tower could cost four times as much as a stone lion or ten times as much as a memorial stele.

What symbolic meanings are attributed to tomb 'que' structures?

The symbolic meaning of a tomb 'que' is thought to be derived from the 'que' at palace entrances, representing the passage of the soul into the spirit world. Additionally, their tall, vertical structure symbolized a connection with heaven.

What happened to the use of 'que' on spirit ways after the fall of the Eastern Han dynasty?

The use of 'que' on spirit ways declined after the fall of the Eastern Han. While some were found in Sichuan in the 3rd and 4th centuries, they were generally replaced by *huabiao* pillars in this role.

Approximately how many 'que' structures have survived to the present day, and where are most of them located?

Around 30 'que' structures have survived to the present day. The majority of these are located in Sichuan province, with a few found in Henan and Shandong provinces.

What are the proposed reasons for the concentration of surviving 'que' in provinces like Sichuan?

According to Ann Paludan, the prevalence of surviving 'que' in regions like Sichuan can be attributed to two main factors: the ready availability of stone and a strong tradition of stone-working craft in those areas, leading to more stone 'que' being produced. Secondly, Sichuan's more remote and less accessible areas have preserved these structures better, unlike those near imperial capitals which suffered more destruction over time.

Who is credited with bringing the Sichuan 'que' to the attention of international scholarship?

Victor Segalen, through his expedition in 1914, is credited with first introducing many of the Sichuan 'que' to international scholarship.

Did the use of 'que' cease entirely after the Han dynasty?

No, the use of 'que' did not disappear after the Han dynasty, although it declined in tomb architecture. They continued to be used in various contexts.

Provide an example of 'que' usage in imperial tombs during the Tang dynasty.

Imperial tombs of the Tang dynasty commonly featured 'que', and remnants can still be seen today. The Qianling Mausoleum, a well-preserved example, showcases three sets of 'que' towers arranged sequentially along its spirit way.

In what other locations, besides tombs, did 'que' remain in use after the Han dynasty?

'Que' continued to be used in front of temples and bridges, and in gateways to imperial palaces, remaining in use down to the end of the imperial era.

How did 'que' structures evolve when integrated with conventional gateways in later periods?

In later periods, 'que' were sometimes combined with conventional gateways to form a single U-shaped structure. In this design, a conventional gate was connected via outward-extending 'arms' to two 'que' towers.

What are the final known examples of these combined 'que' gates, and what is their status?

The final two examples of such combined 'que' gates were the Meridian Gates, serving as the southern and main entrances to the imperial palaces in Nanjing and Beijing, built during the Ming dynasty. The 'que' in Nanjing were demolished in 1924, but the gate in Beijing survives intact.

How is the 'que' component distinguished in the surviving Meridian Gate in Beijing?

In the Meridian Gate in Beijing, the 'que' component is distinctly identified from the main gate house. Two 'que' pavilions, each topped with a pyramidal roof, mark out the 'que' sections.

Are there any examples of 'que' gate designs outside of China?

Yes, the Meridian Gate in Huế, Vietnam, features a design similar to the combined 'que' gates found in China.

What are some specific examples of surviving 'que' structures mentioned in the text?

Specific examples of surviving 'que' structures include those at the Tomb of Fan Min in Lushan County, Sichuan; the Mausoleum of the Shen family in Qu County, Sichuan; the Tomb of Gao Yi in Ya'an, Sichuan; and the Liye Tower in Zitong County, Sichuan.

What unique historical artifact is associated with the Tomb of Fan Min in Lushan County, Sichuan?

The Tomb of Fan Min in Lushan County, Sichuan, is notable for also being the location of the oldest known tortoise-borne stele.

What was the role of 'que' towers as markers of symbolic boundaries?

'Que' towers, particularly the earlier wooden or earthen versions, served as markers for the symbolic boundary of palace or temple premises, indicating the transition into a significant or sacred area.

How did the design of 'que' evolve to incorporate imitation of architectural elements?

Stone-carved 'que' often imitated the appearance of wooden buildings, including features like roof tile eaves, even though they were constructed entirely of stone. This imitation reflects the architectural styles and materials of the time.

What does the term 'shendao' refer to in the context of Han dynasty tombs?

'Shendao' refers to the spirit way, an architectural ensemble often found at the graves of high officials during China's Han dynasty, which frequently included 'que' towers as components.

What is the significance of the 'que' in relation to the sky or heaven in Han dynasty tomb symbolism?

The tall, vertical structure of the 'que' was symbolically interpreted as representing a connection with heaven, in addition to symbolizing the soul's passage into the spirit world.

What architectural element largely replaced the 'que' on spirit ways after the Eastern Han period?

After the Eastern Han era, the role of 'que' on spirit ways was generally assumed by *huabiao* pillars, which are large ornamental columns.

What factors contributed to the destruction of 'que' structures near imperial capitals compared to those in more remote areas?

'Que' structures located near imperial capitals experienced more intensive destruction over the nearly 2000 years since the Han dynasty. In contrast, 'que' in more remote and culturally conservative areas, such as parts of Sichuan, had a better chance of survival due to less historical disturbance.

How can the description of the Gao Yi 'que' be rephrased into a complete sentence?

The source material describes a stone-carved 'que' tower, measuring 6 meters (20 feet) in total height, which is located at the tomb of Gao Yi in Ya'an, Sichuan province, and dates from the Eastern Han dynasty. It is noted for its stone-carved decorations that imitate roof tile eaves, despite the fact that Han dynasty stone 'que' (which were part of the walled structures around tomb entrances) did not originally include wooden or ceramic components, but often mimicked wooden buildings with ceramic roof tiles.

How can the description of the Dingfang 'que' pillar gates be rephrased?

The source material references Eastern Han stone-carved 'que' pillar gates located in Dingfang, Zhong County, Chongqing. These gates were associated with a temple that was dedicated to Ba Manzi, a general prominent during the Warring States period.

How can the gallery item featuring the mural from Prince Yide's tomb be described in a full sentence?

The source material includes a gallery item featuring a mural from Prince Yide's tomb, dating to the 8th century. This mural illustrates a 'que' tower positioned along the walls of Chang'an, providing a visual representation of these structures in a different context and time period.

How can the description of the Qianling Mausoleum spirit way be rephrased?

The source material describes a view down the spirit way of the Qianling Mausoleum, belonging to the Tang dynasty. In the mid-distance, remnants of the third set of 'que' towers are visible, suggesting that stone platforms existed which were originally topped with pavilion-like structures.

How can the gallery item describing the Meridian Gate in Beijing be described in a full sentence?

The source material presents a historic photograph of the Meridian Gate in Beijing, identified as the sole surviving example of an imperial 'que' gate in China. The photograph clearly shows the gate's structure, emphasizing the two protruding 'que' wings integrated with the central conventional gate.

How can the gallery item describing the Meridian Gate in Huế be described in a full sentence?

The source material includes an image identified as the Meridian Gate in Huế, Vietnam, noting its architectural similarity to the Chinese 'que' gate design.

What is the significance of the *mw-heading mw-heading2* tags in the source text?

These tags indicate the start of a level 2 heading within the Wikipedia article's structure, used to organize content into distinct sections such as 'Que in the Han dynasty,' 'Que after the Han dynasty,' and 'Examples.'

What does the term *mw-editsection* signify in the source text?

The *mw-editsection* tags, along with their associated links, indicate that specific sections of the Wikipedia article are designed to be editable, allowing users to contribute or modify content directly.

What is the function of the `mw-file-element` class in the image tags?

The `mw-file-element` class is likely used in the underlying code to identify and style the actual image file displayed on the page, distinguishing it from surrounding elements like captions or links.

What does the `srcset` attribute in image tags provide?

The `srcset` attribute provides multiple image sources for different screen resolutions or sizes. This allows the web browser to select the most appropriate image file, optimizing loading times and display quality across various devices.

What is the function of the `mw-cite-backlink` class in the references section?

The `mw-cite-backlink` class is used to create the links that allow a reader to jump back from a reference citation in the main text to the corresponding detailed reference entry in the 'References' section.

What does the `Z3988` class in the reference entries signify?

The `Z3988` class is associated with a metadata template that embeds citation information in a standardized format. This allows software agents or other systems to parse and understand the bibliographic details of the source.

What is the role of the `plainlinks sistersitebox` class in the reference section?

This class is used to create a sidebar box, often on the right side of the page, that links to related Wikimedia projects, such as Wikimedia Commons in this case, providing a clean, unobtrusive way to offer additional resources.

What does the `noviewer` attribute signify in the Wikimedia Commons link?

The `noviewer` attribute suggests that the linked file does not require special viewer software or permissions to be accessed, indicating it's a standard, publicly available media file.

What is the purpose of the `mw-parser-output` class in the HTML structure?

The `mw-parser-output` class typically wraps the main content generated by the MediaWiki software's parser. It helps in applying specific CSS styling and structure to the rendered article content, distinguishing it from interface elements.

What does the `mw-heading` tag indicate within the article's structure?

The `mw-heading` tag denotes a section heading within the article, helping to organize the content logically for readers.

What is the function of the `mw-file-description` element within the gallery items?

The `mw-file-description` element contains the descriptive text or caption associated with each image in the gallery, providing context and information about the visual content.

What does the `srcset` attribute in image tags contribute to user experience?

The `srcset` attribute enhances user experience by enabling responsive images. It allows the browser to download an image file that is appropriately sized for the user's device screen, improving loading speed and visual clarity compared to serving a single, large image to all users.

What is the historical period associated with the tomb of Gao Yi where a stone-carved que is located?

The stone-carved que located at the tomb of Gao Yi in Ya'an, Sichuan province, dates from the Eastern Han dynasty.

What architectural feature did the stone-carved decorations on the Gao Yi que imitate?

The stone-carved decorations on the Gao Yi que imitated roof tile eaves, mimicking features found on wooden buildings.

What was the original purpose of the 'que' towers that were part of walled structures around tomb entrances?

The 'que' towers, when part of walled structures around tomb entrances, served as ceremonial gateways.

Que Tower Wiki: The Que: Sentinels of Ancient Chinese Gateways

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Defining the Que

Ceremonial Gate Towers

The que (simplified Chinese: 阙; traditional Chinese: 闕; pinyin: què) represents a distinct architectural element in traditional Chinese design: a freestanding, ceremonial gate tower. Its historical trajectory spans millennia, originating during the Zhou dynasty (1046–256 BC) and persisting through various dynasties until the Qing dynasty (1644–1912). These structures primarily served as ceremonial gateways, marking significant entrances to tombs, palaces, and temples.

Historical Significance

While the concept of que existed across centuries, their prevalence and architectural elaboration reached a zenith during the Han dynasty (202 BC – 220 AD). Today, surviving que often form integral components of tomb ensembles, particularly along the shendao (spirit ways) leading to the graves of high officials. Their rich sculptural decoration makes them invaluable surviving artifacts, offering profound insights into the artistic and architectural achievements of the Han period.

The Han Dynasty Zenith

Peak of Popularity and Decoration

The Han dynasty witnessed the most extensive use and elaborate design of que towers. Positioned typically in pairs along the shendao (spirit way), these structures were often the most substantial and costly elements of the tomb complex. Scholarly estimates suggest a single que could command a value four times that of a stone lion and ten times that of a memorial stele, underscoring their importance and the resources dedicated to their construction.^[4]

Architectural Antecedents

It is widely theorized that the stone que structures familiar today are reproductions of earlier, freestanding wooden and earthen towers. These predecessors, known even during the Qin dynasty, were placed before the entrances of palaces, temples, and administrative buildings. They functioned as markers delineating the symbolic boundaries of these important sites. Although no original free-standing wooden que from before the Han dynasty have survived, their appearance is preserved in extant Han dynasty tomb reliefs, such as those found in the Yinan tombs in Shandong province.^[4]

Origins and Evolution

From Integral to Freestanding

The development of the que can be traced from gate towers that were originally integral parts of building complexes or city walls. Over time, these evolved into freestanding structures. Initially serving functional purposes, they gradually acquired ceremonial and symbolic significance, marking transitions between different realms or levels of importance. The earliest documented forms date back to the Zhou dynasty, laying the groundwork for their later prominence.

Stone Craftsmanship

The transition to stone as a primary material, particularly during the Han dynasty, allowed for greater permanence and intricate sculptural detail. This shift was likely influenced by the availability of stone resources and established stone-working traditions in certain regions, such as Sichuan. While wooden que were common elsewhere, they have largely succumbed to the ravages of time, leaving stone examples as the most significant surviving relics.^[4]

Symbolic Resonance

Passage and Transcendence

The symbolic meaning of tomb que is deeply intertwined with their function as gateways. It is posited that they represented the passage of the soul from the earthly realm into the spiritual world. Their imposing verticality further suggested a connection or link between the terrestrial and the celestial, serving as a monumental conduit between the living and the divine or ancestral realms.^[4]

Boundary Markers

Beyond their spiritual connotations, que also served as potent symbols of demarcation. Placed at the entrances to palaces, temples, and tombs, they visually and symbolically delineated sacred or important spaces from the mundane world. This function as a boundary marker reinforced the significance and exclusivity of the areas they guarded.

Post-Han Decline

Shifting Architectural Trends

Following the dissolution of the Eastern Han dynasty, the prominence of que in tomb architecture began to wane. While examples from the 3rd and 4th centuries exist, particularly in the more culturally conservative regions of Sichuan, their widespread use diminished. In many contexts, the symbolic and functional role of the que on spirit ways was gradually superseded by other monumental forms, most notably the huabiao pillars.^[5]

Continued Use in Other Contexts

Despite the decline in tomb architecture, que continued to be employed in other significant settings. They remained a feature in the design of temples and bridges. Furthermore, they persisted as elements within imperial palace gateways, retaining their function as markers of authority and ceremonial access right up to the end of the imperial era. This demonstrates a continued, albeit transformed, relevance of the que form.

Enduring Legacy and Survival

Geographical Distribution

Approximately thirty que structures have survived to the present day. The majority are concentrated in Sichuan province, with a smaller number found in Henan and Shandong. Scholar Ann Paludan suggests this distribution is attributable to several factors. Firstly, regions like Sichuan possessed abundant stone resources and a strong tradition of stone carving, facilitating the creation of durable que, whereas wooden structures elsewhere have largely perished.^[4]

Preservation in Remote Areas

Secondly, the relative remoteness and inaccessibility of certain areas within Sichuan provided a degree of protection against the extensive destruction and rebuilding that occurred in regions closer to imperial capitals over nearly two millennia. This geographical isolation allowed many Han dynasty que to survive relatively intact, preserving crucial evidence of ancient Chinese architectural practices and sculptural artistry.^[4]

Notable Examples

Surviving Structures

Numerous que structures, primarily stone-carved, have endured through the centuries. Many of these are located in Sichuan province, reflecting the region's historical significance and preservation conditions. Notable examples include:

Tomb of Fan Min in Lushan County, Sichuan, which also features the oldest known tortoise-borne stele.^[7]
Mausoleum of the Shen family, Qu County, Sichuan.
Tomb of Gao Yi, Ya'an, Sichuan.
Liye Tower, Zitong County, Sichuan.

These sites offer tangible connections to the past, showcasing the architectural and sculptural prowess of ancient China.

Later Dynasties and Combined Forms

The que form persisted beyond the Han dynasty. Imperial tombs of the Tang dynasty, such as the Qianling Mausoleum, commonly featured que towers, with remnants still visible today. The Qianling Mausoleum notably includes three sequential sets of que towers along its spirit way. The concept evolved further, integrating que elements with conventional gateways. The most prominent examples of this synthesis are the Meridian Gates of Nanjing and Beijing, constructed during the Ming dynasty. While the Nanjing que were demolished, the Beijing Meridian Gate, with its distinct que pavilions, remains a singular surviving example of an imperial que gate.^[3] A similar design can be observed in the Meridian Gate of Huế, Vietnam.

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References

"Chine. La grande statuaire", and "Les origines de la statuaire en Chine"

A full list of references for this article are available at the Que (tower) Wikipedia page

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This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended solely for informational and educational purposes. The content is derived from a snapshot of publicly available data and may not represent the most current or exhaustive information available.

This content is not professional advice. The information presented here should not be considered a substitute for expert consultation in history, architecture, or archaeology. Always consult with qualified professionals and primary sources for definitive research and understanding.

The creators of this page assume no liability for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided.

The Que: Sentinels of Ancient Chinese Gateways

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Defining the Que 🏛️

🏗️ Ceremonial Gate Towers

📜 Historical Significance

The Han Dynasty Zenith 👑

✨ Peak of Popularity and Decoration

🏛️ Architectural Antecedents

Origins and Evolution 🌱

➡️ From Integral to Freestanding

💎 Stone Craftsmanship

Symbolic Resonance ✨

🌌 Passage and Transcendence

📍 Boundary Markers

Post-Han Decline 📉

⏳ Shifting Architectural Trends

🏛️ Continued Use in Other Contexts

Enduring Legacy and Survival ⛰️

🌍 Geographical Distribution

🏞️ Preservation in Remote Areas

Notable Examples 📍

🗿 Surviving Structures

🔗 Later Dynasties and Combined Forms

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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References

📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Educational Context

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Defining the Que

Ceremonial Gate Towers

Historical Significance

The Han Dynasty Zenith

Peak of Popularity and Decoration

Architectural Antecedents

Origins and Evolution

From Integral to Freestanding

Stone Craftsmanship

Symbolic Resonance

Passage and Transcendence

Boundary Markers

Post-Han Decline

Shifting Architectural Trends

Continued Use in Other Contexts

Enduring Legacy and Survival

Geographical Distribution

Preservation in Remote Areas

Notable Examples

Surviving Structures

Later Dynasties and Combined Forms

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Educational Context