From Publishers Weekly

China, "the only ancient civilization to have survived up to the present day," represents a massive undertaking for historians; fortunately, this consideration and celebration of Chinese art from Scottish historian Chinnery, beginning in the Neolithic era and ending just before the 20th Century, is a wholly worthwhile effort. Some of the oldest pieces are the most fascinating, including a detailed hair ornament carved out of jade with a turquoise inlay, believed to date from 2000 BCE. Another highlight is the Terracotta Army, 6,000 life-sized clay soldiers built to protect China's first emporer, Shihuangdi, in the afterlife. Though concerned primarily with art, captured in more than 170 striking color images, this volume also provides a remarkably concise but thorough account of general Chinese history; also noted are important moments in fashion and literature (the Chinese translation of the Buddhist text Diamond Sutra, from 868 CE, is the world's oldest printed book). Also discussed at length is the Chinese language, an art form in itself and "the world's oldest writing system still in use." This beautiful volume should fascinate anyone with an interest in Far East history and art.

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Product Description

Treasures of China presents a portrait of a country and civilization that has fascinated outsiders for millennia. From the mysterious Xia (ca. 2000bce) to the last imperial rulers, the Qing (1644–1912), the history of the greatest imperial power in East Asia unfolds in seven chapters illuminated by over 170 stunning photographs, from the Crucible of a Civilization through to Imperial Zenith and Decline. Each section balances informative background with illuminating commentary that explains not only the art forms (from the magnificent bronze-casting to sublime ceramics, exquisite jade carving to ornate laquerwork), but reveals the nature and significance of its rich symbolism. It makes for a fascinating account of imperial power, war and invasion, as well as a journey of discovery.