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This is the first time that such a building, in
the best architectural style of the Chinese imperial palace,
has been erected in the Western Hemisphere. Every piece of roof
tile was handmade, and every ceiling panel hand painted in Taiwan,
repository and defender of Chinese culture. Everything in this
pavilion has a meaning, from the ceremonial arch guarding the
grounds, to the intricately carved wood screen immediately inside
the entrance. The later, entitled "100 birds pay tribute
to queen phoenix," symbolizes visitors coming from all over
the world to see the New York World's Fair.
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Chou era bronze bell
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about 3,000 years old
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Chinese
Culture
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Silk tapestry of Yuan Dynasty is
700 years old
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is the theme of the exhibit, not so much China's past contributions
to material civilization, such as gunpowder or silk, paper or
chinaware, but rather China's philosophical and ethical contributions
-- Confucian teachings of the Golden Mean, of peace with justice,
of the dignity of man. The Chinese Pavilion hopes to offer an
oasis of peace and quietude that is different from the myriad
attractions of the Fair. The purpose is not to impress or dazzle,
but to provide a change of pace, a place for reflection and quite
enjoyment of a mellow culture, a heritage of one of the world's
oldest nations. |
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Exhibits |
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Stone tiger is from Shang Dynasty of 1766-1111
B.C.
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Ground floor: Mixing of the old and the new, from evolution
of Chinese costumes, today's handicrafts showing ancient patterns,
through the beautiful scenery of Taiwan, to the success story
of land reform and economic development in free China. |
| Second floor: The Chinese way of life as seen through
a typical home, with its living room, dining room and study,
decorated with writing materials, chess, musical instruments
and art objects that make life more meaningful. |
| Third floor: China's 5,000-year-old history is represented
by archeological and artistic treasures. The Shang Dynasty (1766-1111
B.C.) stone tiger is certainly the oldest piece of sculpture
on display at the Fair. Also of interest are the oracle bones
of the same period, bearing the earliest forms of Chinese characters. |
| Fourth floor: Business offices with representatives from
Central Trust of China on hand to answer inquiries on trade. |
Wood screen entitled "100 Birds Pay Tribute
to Queen Phoenix"
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SOURCE: Republic
of China Pavilion Guide Brochure, 1964 Season
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