Conservation of Built Heritage in China: With a Focus on Material Conservaiton

Abstract

China’s built heritage is extremely multifaceted. Due to the countries vast size and cultural diversity its built heritage consists of numerous styles and techniques, which get exposed to a wide array of climatic conditions. In addition to Chinese traditional architecture, there is also a variety of Western influenced architecture, often a mix of Chinese and Western architecture styles, decorative elements and painting techniques. This paper focuses on developments in the area of material conservation and implementation of conservation-restoration works on built heritage sites in China and, in particular, on the contribution of the Tongji Architectural Conservation Laboratory (Tongji ACL) at Tongji University Shanghai. During the past 7 years the Tongji ACL has been working on various projects to develop conservation solutions for architecture and other immovable cultural heritage sites based on scientific research and to promote international best practices. In many of these projects the Tongji ACL has collaborated with international organisations, such as WTA International, and integrated specialists’ expertise in the development and implementation of conservation plans. Since the formation of China ICOMOS in 1993 and the adaptation of international conservation principles in 2000, the field of heritage conservation is developing with a growing number of professionals striving to manage the vast amount of China’s cultural heritage. While much effort is put into the conservation of national preservation sites, inadequate conservation procedures can be observed on many sites in rural areas due to lack of budget, skilled professionals and sufficient control. Many sites face problems due to the lack of knowledge concerning historic and modern building materials and due to the unavailability of specialists in material conservation. Using two case studies as an example, this paper shows some of the difficulties and achievements the Tongji ACL experiences in its projects. Responding to the need for guidance in identification and implementation of conservation and restoration works, the Tongji ACL has been developing and publishing technical guidelines, combining international standards and principles with well-established systems of approved conservation technologies, which have been adapted to Chinese sites and building materials. The development of these guidelines is also a result of the close collaboration and exchange of experience with international specialists through pilot projects and the organization of conferences focusing on specific technical issues. In future the Tongji ACL aims to continue this fruitful collaboration combining local experience and international expertise with a view to develop sustainable conservation plans, which suit local conditions and requirements and can serve as models for future conservation work in China. One area of special concern is the development and promotion of affordable methods for the conservation and protection of villages and structures in rural areas, particularly low- or non-graded sites, which are the built heritage currently most endangered.