Decoding methods for understanding ancient drawings depicting martial arts.

The primary aim of this research is to explain how to decode ancient martial art drawings and texts. Detailed observing and reading is most important. Researcher have to look at each detail from fighter clothing, footwear, face expression, hands and foots including fingers position fighter size, size and outlook including haircut.

When reading text some have to take in account old Chinese proverbs: When reading, do not let a single word escape your attention; one word may be worth a thousand pieces of gold and Writing cannot express all words, words cannot encompass all ideas, and imagination is more important than knowledge.

Therefore author methods used for this research include a study of literature, his own practical self-defense experience, acupressure point fighting, Chinese history, Kata forms, anatomy, body kinetics as well as Chinese philosophy. The most significant result of this study is a new detailed approach in ancient drawing understanding.

Key words: Ancient Marshal art drawing, Kata, Bunkai. Wu Bei Zhi, Bubishi.

 

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