Traditional Chinese Designs

Book excerpt: Recognized internationally for their subtlety, delicate lines, and enduring beauty, artistic Chinese designs have long been regarded as more than simple ornamentation. The distinctive motifs represented in this superb collection of 218 royalty-free patterns are typical of a vital art tradition that is experiencing a worldwide renaissance in popularity. Selected from various illustrated booklets published throughout the People's Republic of China and in Hong Kong, these motifs are derived from a vast selection of Chinese artifacts ? dating from prehistoric pottery to the present day. Many of the patterns, which come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and styles, were originally conceived for decorating textiles, ceramics, metalwork, woodcarvings, basketry, and cut paper, in addition to carved stone, tiles, and other architectural elements. Commercial artists and graphic designers will find an abundant supply of useful borders, frames, and corners, as well as intricate floral displays that include peonies, lotus, chrysanthemums, pine, bamboo, and plum blossoms. Also available in this unique collection are real and fabulous Chinese animals, cloud and water motifs, geometric and abstract patterns, ideographs, and more.