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In ancient Chinese architecture, chiwen were mostly made of pottery or wood before the time of Yongle Palace, but the ones at the temple used a colored glaze, known as liuli, that has not faded even centuries later. The technique for manufacturing them is thought to have been imported from West Asia.

"As lintels in ancient Chinese architecture were usually decorated with colorful paintings, Yongle Palace provided something new, as sculptures were also used," An adds.

"Traditional Chinese decorative patterns are still prevalent, but these new forms tell us about the inclusive nature of Chinese civilization," he explains. "Cultural exchange and learning was never blocked, despite wars."

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