Question 1

The phoenix may represent the yin, the principle characterizing which of the following?

Accepted Answer

The phoenix often symbolizes rebirth and renewal, which are qualities associated with yin in Chinese philosophy. Yin is characterized by passive, receptive, and feminine energy, contrasting with yang's active, assertive, and masculine qualities.

Question 2

What was considered the most prestigious artistic subject during the Ming dynasty?

Accepted Answer

During the Ming dynasty, landscape painting was considered the most prestigious artistic subject. This period saw a flourishing of landscape art, emphasizing harmony between humans and nature, and it was highly esteemed for its philosophical and aesthetic qualities.

Question 3

The professional painter for the Ming court served to promote the ideology of the dynasty by creating which of the following painting types?

Accepted Answer

Imperial family portraits were used to promote the ideology of the Ming dynasty by emphasizing the power and legitimacy of the ruling family.

Question 4

The Ming architecture of Beijing was built in the traditional Chinese construction technique, referred to as which system?

Accepted Answer

The Ming architecture of Beijing prominently features the traditional Chinese construction technique known as the bracketing system. This system involves the use of wooden brackets that are stacked one on top of another to support the roof, allowing for overhanging eaves and complex roof structures without the need for large columns or walls, thus creating more open and flexible spaces.

Question 5

The last native Chinese dynasty was which of the following?

Accepted Answer

The Ming dynasty was the last native Chinese dynasty, ruling from 1368 to 1644, before being succeeded by the Qing dynasty, which was established by the Manchus.

Question 6

A painting style that was freer and more expressive belonged to which of the following schools?

Accepted Answer

The Southern School, also known as the Literati School, was known for a painting style that was freer and more expressive, emphasizing personal expression and the painter's individuality. This contrasted with the more formal and technically precise styles of the other schools, particularly the Court School, which was more aligned with the tastes and expectations of the imperial court and its officials.

Question 7

Marco Polo's travels in China took place during which dynasty?

Accepted Answer

Marco Polo's travels in China occurred during the Yuan Dynasty, which was established by Kublai Khan, a Mongol leader and the grandson of Genghis Khan.

Question 8

With which of the following groups of people did Zhu Yuanzhong, who established the Ming dynasty, share kinship?

Accepted Answer

Zhu Yuanzhang, the founder of the Ming Dynasty, was of native Chinese origin, specifically from a poor peasant family, which contrasts with the ethnic backgrounds of the Mongols, Huns, and Manchurians.

Question 9

China is credited with the invention of which of the following pottery types?

Accepted Answer

Porcelain was first developed in China during the Tang dynasty (618-907). It is known for its high strength, durability, and white, translucent quality, distinguishing it from other types of pottery.

Question 10

In his painting Geumgangsan Mountains , the Korean Joseon dynasty artist Jeong Seon evoked an actual scene, and this pictorial approach is referred to as what?

Accepted Answer

Jeong Seon's approach in "Geumgangsan Mountains" is known as "true view painting," which marked a significant shift in Korean landscape painting during the Joseon dynasty. This style emphasizes the depiction of actual landscapes as observed by the artist, rather than idealized or imaginary scenes.

Question 11

Which of the following would define the style of artist Shen Zhou, who painted Lofty Mount Lu and indicated the size of the mountain by sketching a small figure at the bottom?

Accepted Answer

Shen Zhou was a prominent figure in the Wu School, which is associated with the broader Southern School of Chinese painting. This school is known for its free and expressive style, emphasizing personal expression and spontaneity, often incorporating poetry and calligraphy into their works. The depiction of a large mountain with a small figure to indicate scale is characteristic of this style, focusing on the harmony between humanity and nature.

Question 12

Which of the following dynasties designed the core of the imperial palace in the Forbidden City?

Accepted Answer

The Ming Dynasty is responsible for designing the core of the imperial palace in the Forbidden City, which was constructed from 1406 to 1420 during the reign of Yongle Emperor.

Question 13

Which of the following is the best description of literati painting?

Accepted Answer

Literati painting is characterized by its emphasis on personal expression, often incorporating both imagery and calligraphy to convey the artist's thoughts, feelings, and scholarly pursuits. Unlike paintings intended for wide appeal or those that adhere strictly to current trends or court styles, literati painting is deeply personal and reflective of the individual artist's intellect and creativity.

Question 14

What is the color scheme of the Yuan Temple vases?

Accepted Answer

The Yuan Temple vases are known for their distinctive blue and white color scheme, which became highly popular and influential in the world of ceramics.

Question 15

Who was responsible for codifying the distinction among painters between a scholar-amateur and an academic-professional?

Accepted Answer

Dong Qichang was responsible for codifying the distinction among painters between a scholar-amateur and an academic-professional, emphasizing the importance of personal expression and literati values in painting.

Question 16

Which of the following artists chose to work for the Yuan administration in the Mongol court?

Accepted Answer

Zhao Mengfu was a Chinese scholar, painter, and calligrapher who chose to serve the Yuan dynasty, which was established by the Mongols. Despite the controversy over his decision among later generations, he is recognized for his contributions to Chinese art, particularly in integrating calligraphic techniques into painting.

Question 17

Which of the following buildings was the focus of the north-south axis of the Forbidden City?

Accepted Answer

The Hall of Supreme Harmony was the focus of the north-south axis of the Forbidden City, serving as the ceremonial and political center of Chinese imperial power.

Question 18

Which of the following garden designs does NOT conform to the Chinese aesthetic?

Accepted Answer

The Chinese garden aesthetic traditionally emphasizes naturalism and the imitation of natural landscapes, favoring irregularities, surprises, and reflections that mimic nature. A geometric layout of flowers is more characteristic of formal Western gardens, not the Chinese style, which seeks to avoid rigid, geometric arrangements in favor of more organic, flowing designs.

Question 19

Why did many of the Chinese loyal to the former emperor refuse to serve the new emperor during the Yuan period?

Accepted Answer

The Yuan Dynasty was established by the Mongols, who were considered foreigners and usurpers by many Chinese loyal to the previous dynasties. This foreign rule was a significant reason why many Chinese refused to serve the new emperor, as they did not want to serve under what they considered an illegitimate, foreign-led regime.

Question 20

Which of the following generals overcame the Chinese attempt to control northeastern Korea during the Ming dynasty?

Accepted Answer

General Yi Seong-gye played a pivotal role in defending Korea against foreign invasions, including efforts against the Ming dynasty's attempts to exert control over the region. He is best known for founding the Joseon Dynasty after overthrowing the Goryeo Dynasty.

Quiz 34: China and Korea, 1279 to 1980