真形、神圖與靈符：道教三皇文視覺化初探

This paper explores the concept of Daoist Visual Culture, and further considers Daoist attitudes towards the definitions of ＂image.＂ It also explores Daoist attitudes towards images, talismans, and texts in Daoist scriptures, and from there outlines concepts related to Daoist images in Daoist scriptures. Descriptions of ＂images＂ and ＂texts＂ in Daoist scriptures provide key insights to the creators’ visual thinking. We need to reconsider the definition of image in art history and establish the visual culture of Daoism according to Daoist concepts. This article analyzes the Daoist image based on the discussion of pictures and texts in Daoist scriptures during medieval China. The main references in this paper are the Sanhuang Wen, or Writs of the Three Sovereigns scriptures and the Celestial Master, Great Purity and Numinous Treasures scriptures from the fourth to the eighth century. This paper will investigate the visual culture of Daoism from seven different perspectives: 1. True Form; 2. Visualization; 3. Embodiment; 4. Empowerment; 5. Space; 6. Ritual Context; 7. Functions. Building on these perspectives, this study reveals new understandings of visual culture in early medieval Daoism.