Question 1:
Discuss the relationship of human beings with the natural world reflected in examples of Chinese art and/or architecture across eras and dynasties. Compare and constrast this with the distinctive forms and stylistic elements of Japanese shrines and temple sites. What underlying beliefs or philosophical views are understood through these depictions or symbolic representations of humanity and nature?
Question 2:
We learned that in 1897, a British unit sacked and burned the royal palace at Benin. The raid was as a reprisal for the earlier murder of a trade delegation. During the raid, the British appropriated all the art they could carry out as war booty. Thus, African art was carried away without recording any information about its original location or purpose, and its context was lost to scholars. This scenario has been repeated numerous times through the years in many times and places.
Discuss whether the destruction and dispersal of such artworks are normal and natural consequences of human conflict. Explain what you think scholars should do as examples of this type of lost art begin to appear in public collections or museums.
Be sure to explain your ideas clearly and support them by discussing specific works of art that you have read about this week, talking about how they illustrate and support your ideas.