3.3.2 On Original Condition

The ICOMOS Charter for Principles for the Analysis, Conservation and Structural Restoration of Architectural Heritage states that “Imperfections and alterations, when they have become part of the history of the structure, should be maintained so far so they do not compromise the safety requirements.”^[62]Preventing changes to the original condition is the essence of cultural heritage preservation in international policy.However, what does the ‘original condition’ refer to? Is it the current status, the historical situation, or the state of the best period of cultural heritage? In Chinese conservation principles, keeping the original condition is also the basic requirement, but the understanding of ‘original condition’ is unique, due to the long period of use and the resulting changes in Dynastic ideals over the centuries.

In the Qufu Declaration, the original condition is defined as “the healthy state of cultural relics, not the existing state of destruction, distortion, or wear.”^[63]and pointed out that “for damaged architectural relics, as long as they are carefully repaired according to the original prototype, original materials, original structure and original crafts, their scientific value, artistic value and historical value still exist.Ancient buildings that are scientifically restored according to the principle of ‘retention of original state’ cannot be regarded as ‘fake antiques’.”^[64](https://www.daowen.com)

In the Principles for the Conservation of Heritage Sites in China, Article 9 states that the original condition involves a combination of the existing condition and a restored historic condition.In the understanding of the preservation or restoration of a site, it is considered that any damage must be preserved for research value and commemorative significance.However, “Where there exists sufficient physical remains to reveal the historic condition of a small number of missing parts, and where there are no physical remains to reveal the original condition of a small number of missing or altered components, but where after scientific investigation and comparison with components of the same type and period, the original condition can be determined.”^[65]The spatial integrity of Chinese architecture reflects ritual and spirit of the space.The incompleteness of the building will lead to a weakening of spiritual essence.The overall layout of Chinese architecture is also a reflection of intangible cultural heritage such as Taoist, Confucianism philosophy and Feng Shui concept.Therefore, if a defect is the result of vandalism, or natural disaster without commemorative significance or research value, it is necessary to restore it to the original condition based on authentic information.