Art can be used to study the progression of a civilization through time. Art is usually used to express one's beliefs religiously, politically, and sometimes as a source of communication, which is accomplished through imagery. Symbols in works of art can be related to nature and myths.1 From the beginning of Chinese history, art and philosophy worked hand-in-hand with the creation of a work of art. Chinese art was used as evidence of a person's behavior and attitude towards nature and other beings (e.g. the nicer the painting the better the person.)2

During the seventh and eighth centuries Chinese art was at its peak. China at this time was under the jurisdiction of the T'ang Dynasty. Because of the beautiful work being manufactured China became a multinational society. Paintings and sculptures were not the only works that China would receive admiration for. Their music and literature (poems which sometimes explained works of art) were also at their richest points,3

T'ang art has incomparable vigor, realism, dignity... There is an optimism, an energy, a frank acceptance of tangible reality which gives the same character to all T'an

Sullivan, Michael. The Arts of China. University of California Press. Los Angeles: 1973

Froneck, Thomas. Horizon Book of the Arts of China - Horizon Magazine

I was drawn to this piece because it contained such great detail and symbolism. This artifact shows the significance of the respect one should have towards elders. This piece also elaborates on the importance of nature to the Chinese culture. The mountains, trees, and waterfalls are engraved in great detail and that is what makes the carving seem life-like.

Some common words found in the essay are:
T'ang Dynasty, Palace Museum, Sax African, Sax Art, Matute October, CE Jade, Matute September, Mountain Scene, chinese art, Third Edition, Inc York, chinese culture, arts china, professor sax, 007 professor, palace museum, 1999 art, sharon matute, t'ang art, 007 professor sax,
Approximate Word count = 1105
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)