What are the characteristics of ancient Chinese architectural color decoration in different historical periods?

The use of color is one of the most prominent features of ancient Chinese architectural decoration, but there are several differences due to the different nationalities and regions, and its excellence was developed by combining the artistic requirements of architecture with the protection of wood. As far as palace architecture is concerned, from the Spring and Autumn Period onwards, strong primary colors were mainly used, and after a long period of development, a number of excellent techniques were created in terms of sharp color contrasts and harmonization. North and South Dynasty, Sui and Tang palaces, temples, houses, mostly with white walls, red columns, or columns, square, arch painted with gorgeous paintings, the roof covered with gray tiles, black tiles and a few glazed tiles, and the ridge and tiles are often different colors, has opened the descendants of the "shear edge" of the roof of the precedent. Song and Jin palaces gradually use white stone foundation, red walls, pillars, doors, windows and yellow and green colors of the glazed roof, and in the eaves with gold and blue color painting, strengthen the shadow part of the contrast, to create a kind of rich and gorgeous art effect. This method was basically formed in the Yuan Dynasty and became institutionalized in the Ming Dynasty.

In ancient feudal society, due to the feudal hierarchy, the use of color also has strict restrictions. Such as the Song Dynasty, "where the people's homes, not Shi five-color decoration"; Ming Dynasty, "the people's homes, not allowed to decorate color" provisions. Therefore, only palaces, altars and temples and government buildings can apply this brilliant colors. The general residential housing due to hierarchical and economic conditions, more white walls, gray tile and chestnut, black, dark green and other colors of the beams, pillars, decoration, the formation of beautiful elegant tone, and the living environment required by the atmosphere of coordination, the treatment of the hue has achieved a very good artistic effect.