Fang Ding: based on bronze from the tomb of Lady Fu Hao

thingiverse

This model represents a fang ding based on a bronze artifact recovered from the tomb of Lady Fu Hao, dated around 1200 BC. A fang ding is a type of ritual bronze food vessel widely used during the Shang and Zhou periods in Chinese history. The oversized version is quite massive, but it's recommended to opt for more realistic resizes. The image source is Artstor. This model is part of an ongoing initiative by Portland Community College's Disability Services department to make art history more accessible to students with visual impairments and anyone who would benefit from a more tactile experience with these historic pieces of human culture. I'm compiling a collection of written descriptions, along with 3D printing files and raised ink print templates, to accompany each model. The descriptions include essential historical context, but the subjectivity of art makes physical models invaluable in conveying form and structure. In addition to the Chinese Art History class examples, I'm gathering common forms and motifs found throughout Chinese and global art. My primary audience is students enrolled in Chinese Art History at PCC, but this project aims to eventually include other art history courses and classes where a thorough understanding of the subject matter is crucial. The plan is to make the repository accessible to anyone who wants to use it once it's substantial enough. I'll also be posting original designs on Thingiverse. To participate in this project, one only needs an interest in art. A 3D printer is required for printing models, which are available at the PCC Makerspace and Disability Services. My process involves studying video lectures, gathering relevant information, and spreadsheeting it. I then research and write descriptions of formal elements such as line, color, shape, composition, texture, contrast, echo, etc. If possible, I create a model of the piece. Flatter works can have their contrast and black/white values adjusted for printing with raised ink or to be easily imported into Cura or a lithopane editor. This model was created using Autodesk Fusion 360. The primary outcome I'm aiming for is broader accessibility to the world's artwork. With 3D printing, artwork that's locked away in museums or confined to book pages can be transformed into something that can be felt and explored by anyone.