Synopses & Reviews
andlt;bandgt; This fourth revised edition of andlt;iandgt;Chinese Symbolism and Art Motifsandlt;/iandgt;, first published in Shanghai in 1941, features an introduction by Dr. Terence Barrow, has been completely reset and now uses the Pinyin pronunciation of Chinese names and words.andlt;/bandgt;andlt;BRandgt;andlt;BRandgt;The Eight Immortals, the five elements, the dragon and the phoenix, andlt;iandgt;yinandlt;/iandgt; and andlt;iandgt;yangandlt;/iandgt;and#8212;representations of these important cultural symbols are pervasive in Chinese literature, art and architecture. Without an understanding of their significance, much Chinese history, folklore and culture can't be fully appreciated. In this comprehensive handbook, C.A.S. Williams offers concise explanationsand#8212;and over 400 illustrationsand#8212;of these essential symbols and motifs. Arranged alphabetically for easy access, the book not only explains essential cultural symbols, accompanied by their Chinese characters, but also contains many articles on Chinese beliefs, customs, arts and crafts, food, agriculture, and medicine. This book has become a standard reference volume for students of China and Chinese culture.andlt;BRandgt;andlt;BRandgt;For those who are visiting China, andlt;iandgt;Chinese Symbolism and Art Motifsandlt;/iandgt; is an indispensable guide to the Middle Kingdom's artistic and architectural wonders. For the general reader, it is a valuable compendium of fascinating sinological lore.
Synopsis
Gain a deeper appreciation for Chinese art and architecture by understanding its symbols. The Yin and Yang, dragon, phoenix, five elements, and other symbols are explained in their historical and cultural context. andlt;iandgt;Chinese Symbolism and Art Motifsandlt;/iandgt; also includes articles on Chinese beliefs, customs, arts and crafts, foods, agriculture and medicine.andlt;BRandgt;andlt;BRandgt;Originally published in 1941, this is the standard reference book, with over 400 illustrations to help clarify and define this ancient, complex culture.
Synopsis
This gorgeously produced book reveals the hidden meaning behind motifs in Chinese decorative arts. When any Westerner looks at Chinese art, it is immediately apparent how much the depiction of animal and plant life differs from its American or European equivalent. This exceptional world teems with flowers, trees, birds, fish, shellfish, and insects, mixed with fantastic creatures or figures taken from legend and mythology. Various motifs can appear together in one scene, and if the viewer understands the language, the images are charged with symbolism.and#160;
This absorbing study explores the rich symbolic language of exquisite works in ceramic, jade, lacquer, glass, and silk from the world-renowned Baur Collection.
Synopsis
The essential A to Z guide to Chinese symbolism in art and architecture
Synopsis
Gain a deeper appreciation for Chinese art and architecture by understanding its symbols. The Yin and Yang, dragon, phoenix, five elements, and other symbols are explained in their historical and cultural context.
Chinese Symbolism and Art Motifs also includes articles on Chinese beliefs, customs, arts and crafts, foods, agriculture and medicine.
Originally published in 1941, this is the standard reference book, with over 400 illustrations to help clarify and define this ancient, complex culture.
About the Author
andlt;iandgt;andlt;bandgt;Charles Alfred Speed Williamsandlt;/iandgt;andlt;/bandgt; was a distinguished British scholar who spent most of his active life in China. He served as Acting Commissioner in Charge of Maritime Customs in Peking, Examiner in Mandarin for Hong Kong University and Lecturer at Chiaotung University.