Abstract: Lotus is one of the traditional Chinese patterns that runs deep in the history of China. During the rule of Wei and Jin dynasties, as well as Northern and Southern dynasties (222 – 589 AD), Buddhism teaching has become widespread in China. Buddhism affected the traditional Chinese lotus patterns in terms of the used artistic means and methods of expression. Analysis is conducted on manifestation and evolution of the artistic form of the lotus pattern in Chinese culture, as well as the changes in its artistic means of expression and graphics based on the information described in the scientific literature dedicated to artefacts. The conclusion is made that the development and evolution of decorative patterns is often a result of interaction of different cultures and forms of art, rather than continuation of one or another single line. The author summarizes the common artistic form of lotus patterns of this period, as well as the basis of the visual language of lotus patterns and its development. The artistic style of this period under review remains in a relatively stable transitional stage from the perspective of formal expression.

Abstract: Lotus pattern is one of the traditional Chinese ornaments that dates back to the ancient times. During the rule of Wei and Jin dynasties, as well as Northern and Southern dynasties (222 – 589 AD), Buddhism has largely prevailed across the territory of the Great Plain of China. The forms, methods of expression, and meanings of the Chinese traditional ornaments that used the lotus pattern have changed under the influence of Buddhism. This article analyzes the peculiarities of synthesis of the Buddhist lotus ornament with the Chinese traditional culture, as well as the degree of impact of Buddhism upon the form, means of expression, and symbolic meaning of lotus patterns in the Chinese society. Having studied the scientific literature and research on the topic, the author analyzes he peculiarities of evolution of lotus pattern in China after the spread of Buddhism.  The key stages of the development of lotus ornament in Buddhist decoration are examined. The conclusion is made that Buddhism played a crucial role in transformation of characteristics and means of expression of the lotus ornament, as well as extensively complemented and changed the symbolic meaning of lotus in Chinese culture and people’s perception. Buddhism not only enriched the exterior and shape of the Chinese louts ornament, but made a significant contribution to its inscape.