Abstract
This study analyses Song dynasty garden documents and paintings and identifies three methods to create mountain-viewing experiences in private gardens. The landscaping techniques, aesthetic sensibilities, and cultural implications of each method are discussed, and the evolution of the mountain-viewing tradition is examined. Due to changes in natural conditions and the influence of royalty, mountains and stones as garden design elements held greater significance under the Southern Song dynasty than the Northern Song dynasty, with marked changes in mountain-building techniques, appreciation of stones, aesthetic preferences, and the professional esteem of designing gardens. Mountain-viewing pavilions became more prevalent during the Southern Song dynasty because the Song people deeply revered scholar Tao Yuanming. This paper contributes to Chinese landscaping history literature by showing how and why the mountain-viewing trend grew and how the Song dynasty influenced garden landscaping in China.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
