Caisson (Asian architecture)

[4] In the case of Chinese architecture, however, the caisson is characterised by highly developed conventions as to its structure and placement.

Caissons in the throne rooms of the Forbidden City feature a large, writhing dragon, from whose mouth issue a chandelier-like structure called the Yellow Emperor Mirror, a series of metal balls which are said to be able to show reflections of evil spirits.

The caisson has been found in tombs of the Han dynasty dating the use of this architectural feature back at least 2,000 years.

More decorative was the lattice ceiling, constructed of woven wooden strips or sorghum stems fastened to the beams.

[9] As the caisson became increasingly standard in formal architecture in ancient China, similar structures also appeared in Buddhist grottos, such as in Dunhuang.