 |
)is
defined in fen; it is related to the grade
of the building. Its length and spacing are defined in absolute terms:
for example, its maximum (horizontally projected) length is 6 chi.
In our sample building, the dimensions are as follows:
1 (horizontally projected) length = 150 fen (= 6 chi)
2 diameter = 7 fen
3 centre-to-centre spacing = 0.80 - 0.85 chi
The rafter is used as a unit of length in the short direction, i.e., parallel to the rafters. Thus, our sample building is said to be three bays wide and four rafters deep. Similarly, transverse beams are named according to their length, e.g., two-rafter beam. (For more detailed information, see Liang 1984, 264.)
See the front hall (Xian dian) of Shengmu miao for examples.