Traditional Chinese Designs: With 218 illustrations

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 permission-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, 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-dragons, tigers, phoenixes, lions, butterflies, mandarin ducks, and bats Cloud and water motifs Geometric and abstract patterns Two frequently used Chinese ideographs representing «double happiness» and «long life» ...and much more. These patterns can be used as is, rearranged, combined, enlarged, or reduced. Illustrators, textile designers, craftpeople, anyone looking for authentic Chinese designs, will find this rich and easily affordable collection an invaluable addition to their working libraries.