The arrangement of objects in the Chinese painting you described demonstrates the principle of "yin and yang," which illustrates the balance between opposites. The tall cliffs in the background represent stability, strength, and permanence, while the small building with trees in the foreground embodies fragility, human presence, and the transitory nature of life.
This contrast can also reflect the Buddhist principle of impermanence (anicca), suggesting that while nature is vast and enduring (tall cliffs), human life is fleeting and small (the building with trees). The juxtaposition may invite viewers to contemplate their own place within the grand scheme of nature and the universe.
Additionally, the composition may reflect the idea of harmony within chaos, a common theme in Chinese art that emphasizes finding peace and balance within life's complexities. This arrangement encourages reflection on the relationship between humanity and nature, highlighting the fragility of human existence amidst the enduring forces of nature.