wūtóumén

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Scope note
Wutoumen refers to a type of elaborate gateway used in high ranking buildings through the Song dynasty, after which it declines in use. As we can tell from paintings and extant examples, the shape, size, and structure of wutoumen vary considerably. However, all wutoumen employ tall pillars flanking the gate. The name is likely derived from the black ceramic tube-shaped finials on the top of these tall gate posts (Cefu yuangui 冊府元龜, 1013). Detailed records of wutoumen exist in the Song dynasty Yingzao fashi (1103, Li 2009, 6.2a-4a).
wūtóumén
Accepted term: 18-Nov-2024