IN-PERSON: Prague – Section A

Abstract

Following the Nara Document, the differences between East and West in terms of heritage conservation, represented by authenticity, have been repeatedly discussed, given the different characteristics and cultural backgrounds. Almost 30 years later, a certain degree of consensus has been reached between the East and the West on the conservation of architectural heritage, but there are still some misconceptions that need to be clarified due to the barriers to communication. For example, the international stereotype of heritage conservation in East Asia is that the reconstruction of architectural heritage is a traditional practice. However, repairing and reusing buildings have also been an important Chinese tradition since ancient times, and reconstruction exists only in exceptional cases and in special circumstances. This paper presents and analyses Qing Dynasty official buildings’ repair and maintenance system by reviewing and collating Qing Dynasty archives, distilling the scientific and sustainable concepts of building repair and maintenance that existed in ancient times. It further elucidates the attitude that repair and maintenance activities of buildings are considered cultural traditions in the Chinese context and seeks to clarify international stereotypes of East Asian architectural heritage conservation measures as being too radical. The paper argues that in addition to seeking out the latest scientific and technological tools, we should also constantly re-examine the region’s traditional techniques. The combination of traditional techniques with advanced conservation theories will enable the conservation of Chinese architectural heritage with an international perspective, while at the same time inheriting and promoting traditional culture.