| Japan's Ise Shrine (300--600 C.E.) and Norway's stave churches (1100--1250 C.E.) are examples of vernacular architecture. Analyses of their functions, building materials, construction techniques, structural forms, and the impact of local philosophical, mythological, and folk influences upon their forms and decorations show that the Ise Shrine and selected Norwegian stave churches reflect cultural values and idea systems common to both cultures. By definition, vernacular architecture implies a regional, provincial character wherein architectural style is perpetuated by native traditions as opposed to cross-cultural influences or universal expression. Yet, as this study demonstrates, all vernacular architecture is not so idiosyncratic and provincial, as its definition would imply. Neither example lacks cultural values and idea systems nor is either totally endemic or regional in function and meaning. As prime examples of Japanese versus Norwegian vernacular architecture, they evince many of the same values and ideals expressed universally in most monumental architecture and in the fine arts generally. |
