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Ladder to the Clouds: Intrigue and Tradition in Chinese Rank

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Ladder to the Clouds: Intrigue and Tradition in Chinese Rank Cover

 

Synopses & Reviews

Publisher Comments:

NOW IN PAPERBACK!For 13 centuries, throughout China male recruits studied diligently for a long series of grueling examinations in hopes of achieving the civil rank that would enable them to serve the emperor of China. For the fortunate few who passed these exams there were nine possible ranks, each identified by a square badge of finely woven kesi, embroidery, or brocade. Now available in paperback, LADDER TO THE CLOUDS offers a thorough analysis of symbols, styles, and techniques used in mandarin square ranks, along with the most complete information for their identification to date.An exploration of Chinese symbols and customs, many of which are still practiced today.Includes vintage photographs and detailed descriptions, photos, and illustrations.Finalist for the 2000 Kiriyama Pacific Rim Book Award.

From the Trade Paperback edition.

Book News Annotation:

This beautifully illustrated volume explores the symbols, styles, and techniques used in Mandarin rank squares. In the first section, Jackson (Asian art collector and author) tells the parallel stories of two fictional boys under the Ming Dynasty—one rich, one poor— attempting to ascend the imperial civil service. Next, Hugus (badge expert and collector) discusses the ranking system, giving detailed explanations of the identifying animals, Chinese symbology, and the evolution of the badges over the centuries. Color photographs, archival photographs of people, and five tables help to identify badges by rank and dynasty.
Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Synopsis:

In this fascinating exploration of the Chinese tradition of rank badges, authors Jackson and Hugus explicate the customs and symbology behind the embroidered patches that have captivated scholars and collectors for centuries.

About the Author

Dr. David Hugus, an Asian textile scholar and collector, lives in Belmont, California.

BEVERLEY JACKSON is an esteemed art and cultural historian who specializes in Chinese art and costume. She tours and lectures on Asian art from her home in Santa Barbara, California.

From the Trade Paperback edition.

Product Details

ISBN:
9781580081276
Author:
Jackson, Beverley
Author:
Hugus, David
Publisher:
Ten Speed Press
Location:
Berkeley, Calif. :
Subject:
History
Subject:
Genealogy
Subject:
China
Subject:
Anthropology - Cultural
Subject:
Asia - China
Subject:
Social conditions
Subject:
Costume
Subject:
1949-
Subject:
Insignia
Subject:
Decorations of honor
Subject:
China Officials and employees.
Subject:
Insignia -- China.
Subject:
Asian
Subject:
World History - China
Edition Description:
Includes bibliographical references and index.
Series Volume:
19
Publication Date:
20000231
Binding:
HARDCOVER
Grade Level:
General/trade
Language:
English
Illustrations:
Yes
Pages:
320
Dimensions:
10.26x10.34x1.04 in. 3.71 lbs.

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Related Subjects

Arts and Entertainment » Art » Chinese
History and Social Science » Anthropology » Cultural Anthropology
History and Social Science » World History » China
Hobbies, Crafts, and Leisure » Crafts » Textiles

Ladder to the Clouds: Intrigue and Tradition in Chinese Rank New Hardcover
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Product details 320 pages Ten Speed Press - English 9781580081276 Reviews:
"Synopsis" by , In this fascinating exploration of the Chinese tradition of rank badges, authors Jackson and Hugus explicate the customs and symbology behind the embroidered patches that have captivated scholars and collectors for centuries.
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