In pictures: China bans ‘bizarre’ architecture

The Chinese government has issued a new directive banning "bizarre architecture", and criticising some of the "oversized, xenocentric, weird" buildings in the country.

China has seen a number of architectural gems springing up in recent years, including one building shaped like a teapot and another that has been likened to a pair of trousers.

Under the new directive, buildings are to be "economical, functional, aesthetically pleasing" and "environmentally friendly".

Here is a selection of the more adventurous buildings that have been developed.

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