Woven Arch Bridge: Histories of Constructional Thoughts

This book explores the woven arch bridge, a unique timber building tradition found in various cultures worldwide. It challenges common beliefs about its origin and genealogy by presenting it as a "universal uniqueness." Through archaeological and anthropological research, it traces the histories of different woven-arch-bridge cultures and investigates the bridge in Southeast China. It establishes a typology and structural evolution theory, compares western and eastern timber building cultures, and offers insights into the differences between East Asia and Europe. The book provides numerous examples and illustrations, valuable for architects, scholars, and general readers interested in historical bridges and traditional construction technology.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 390 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate world of woven arch bridges, a remarkable testament to the craftsmanship and engineering of timber building traditions across diverse cultures. The author views these arch-shaped structures as a unique manifestation of "universal uniqueness," challenging prevailing notions about their origin and genealogy. Spanning a vast expanse of time and geography, the book traces the histories of various woven-arch-bridge cultures, shedding light on their distinctive features and evolution. Through a meticulous blend of archaeological and anthropological methods, it delves into the woven arch bridge in the mountains of Southeast China, offering a comprehensive analysis from three distinct perspectives.

Based on these case studies, the book establishes a typology and presents a novel theory of structural evolution. It also explores the contrasts between Western and Eastern timber building cultures, providing fresh insights into the unique characteristics of East Asia and Europe. Moreover, the book is adorned with numerous examples and illustrations that vividly showcase the beauty and intricacy of these bridges, making it an invaluable resource for architects, scholars, and enthusiasts alike. Whether you are an architect seeking to enrich your knowledge of historical architecture, a bridge historian eager to delve into the depths of tradition, or a general reader with a fascination for historical bridges and traditional construction technology, this book promises to captivate and inspire.

Weight: 760g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367624316