Reading Comprehension 5 for IAR222

[1] From the Roth, Harwood, and Massey readings, select an ARTIFACT you believe to represent
revolution in design. SPECULATE about the type of revolution this artifact symbolizes. Supplement
your answer with a beautifully hand rendered image of the artifact you selected, citing source and page
on your image.

Harwood(II) p. 28

This revolution in design strives from the gain of womens' rights in the 19th century. The free flowing of this chair is like the swaying walk of a woman. The back legs coming off of the chair symbolize a woman's dress. More so, the but of the seat is curved, showing the passion women show rather it be in the comfort of a chair or in everyday life. Also, the materials used in this chair are a direct relation to the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century. It is comprised of iron.


[2] Using the internet, LOCATE and ANALYZE an image for an ARTIFACT, a SPACE, a BUILDING, and a
PLACE, drawing the idea of eastern influences as understood by nineteenth-century minds (China,
Japan, India, Middle Eastern) on western design and architecture. Each answer must include an
appropriately annotated and cited image in addition to a well-crafted essay to defend your choice of
each image and the ways (more than one) that the material item responds to design influences from the
east.

In the 18th century, Eastern influences were introduced to the remainder of the world. The influences in the mirror appear quite boldly with the vibrant gold coloring and drapery. Golds and reds are used in many Asian articles as well as royal blues. The drapery imitates the style in which Chinese curtains are gathered. The mirror is also texturized to symbolize silk. Silk is a natural fiber that is very smooth, often sheer, and generally considered luxurious. 
The chair on the right is a simple chair with a decorative back. The back is lucidly lined and depicts a dragon which is a very common decorative motif in Asian cultures too. Looking more into the back of the chair it seems as though it comprised of lines that form tiger-like paws at the top of what would be considered the dragon’s tail. Tigers are also another well-known Asian motif. 

In the space provided above, the coloring is a great representation of Eastern works. A more prominent Asian detail is the Bamboo plant holder in the right of the image. Bamboo is generally associated with the Japanese and Chinese culture because it grows so rapidly and vast in their soils. It is furthermore considered as a symbolic article of luck and good fortune. Also, the textile patterning is a runoff of traditional Indian patterning. The pattering in the wallpaper is the same markings used in in the ritual of hand art in the Hindu religion. The use of materials, such as the rich woods and the strong fabrics, is another aspect of the Eastern culture. Even though the Industrial Revolution came about in the 19th century, in most instances the Eastern countries strayed away from the use steel and glass for personal spaces and furnitures. The use of natural materials connects one with nature while also providing a sense of warmth in the cold hustle-and-bustle society.

The Texas State Capitol is not only a building but a place, as well after its underground extension in 1993.  From the exterior it is somewhat apparent of the Eastern influence with the steepled dome and red granite walls. The light use of patterning on the gate also strives from the East. But it is more evident on the interior of the building. You can see in the image on the right, when looking down inside the dome, the image inscribed on the floor was inspired it seems by Indian patterning. The image may also reflect the Chinese patterning found in minor artifacts like teapots and other ceramics. Also, in the interiors the gold and red are shown again.

Sources:

Artifact:

http://www.christies.com/features/auctions/0909/7750/

http://www.framemuseums.org/jsp/fiche_oeuvre.jsp?STNAV=&RUBNAV=&CODE=O11504617312681&LANGUE=1&RH=UsaFRAMEMuseums&OBJET_PROVENANCE=COLLECTION


Space:

http://www.library.illinois.edu/spx/BigRead/StoletovHouse2.jpg


Building:

http://zippothepirate.blogspot.com/2005_01_01_archive.html

http://webitect.net/general/40-delightful-pieces-of-tilt-shift-photography/