1. A computer-implemented method for presenting three-dimensional (3D) pictorial characters on a computer display, the method comprising: selecting at least one pictorial character by a user, wherein each character is represented by a sequence of calligraphic strokes and each stroke is selected from a group of 3D structural elements; constructing at least one 3D object corresponding to the calligraphic strokes of the selected at least one pictorial character according to a first set of placement rules; and rendering the at least one 3D object on the computer display, said 3D object comprises a plurality of structural layers.