The Inquiry in to Life Through the Art of Chinese Penjing

Abstract

This research aims to explore the encounters and coexistence of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism existentialism, along with aesthetic philosophies, as the framework. Additionally, it involves comparative reflections with Western aesthetics to examine the convergence, fusion, symbiosis, and development of various schools of Chinese penjing across different temporal contexts—Sui-Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, Qing, modern, and beyond China's borders. The study seeks to interpret the plant species, design aesthetics, and aesthetic sentiments of Chinese penjing under indigenous philosophies. It aims to reveal the sensibilities and intuitive thoughts of people from different social classes throughout Chinese history in their worldly lives, as well as their contemplations on the meaning of life. Furthermore, the research attempts to propose possibilities for the dynamic balance between the historical inheritance and development of Chinese visual culture and arts.

Keywords: Chinese penjing, Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, Temporality, Cultural Heritage.