Painted Decoration

Zhongzuo Gate, Forbidden City, Beijing (map)

The decoration seen here is typical of the painting on the eaves and brackets of the Forbidden City. Underneath the yellow tile roof (this color of roof tile is an imperial perogative), brocade-like patterns of blue, gold, red, white, and green form a bright contrast against the uniform red of the building walls and columns. The paint looks especially fresh due to its recent (2006) restoration.

Zhongzuo Gate is located just east of the Hall of Supreme Harmony.