I think of yin and yang when I compare your image to Phil's tree image from Tule Lake. http://www.pbase.com/pnd1/image/103633078 Your composition uses daylight with the red background and echo of imperial dynasties, which are masculine yang symbols. In Phil's image I see the feminine yin symbols and colors in the water, moon and evening light. Each image is outstanding and I'm struck by the duality. Together they harmonize, across time and space, in our beautiful world.
The thing that is amazing to me is that this stillness existed amid teeming groups of tourists. It is as if the tranquility of this space when the emperors lived here has managed to transcend time.
Just an amazing "still life" image, with beautiful color, and contrasting history with rebirth of green leaves on the tree. So visually pleasing as well with the roofline jutting into the frame.
You are right -- I should have mentioned more about the role of the colors here as well. To me, the green leaves were the most important color. The tree would not have worked as well in black and white. To live, it needs the green. And as you note, its interplay with the red is essential. I love your thought about the red also evoking the faded imperial dynasties that ruled from this place over a 500 year period.
I, too, find this captivating. As you know I used it as the cover for my annual calendar. But for me it is not only the lines and echos, it is also the colors - the fading richness of the red, evocative of the faded glory or the ancient Chinese dynasties, and the interplay of the red and green. Complimentary colors often provide a vibrance to an image.
This is an exquisite image, Tim -- the graceful curves of the tree echo the curves in the ancient stone work, and even the slight curve in the secondary roof line. The green leaves animate the scene, bringing life to an otherwise frozen past.
