This book is an encyclopedia of Chinese classical art, giving an informative overview of all forms of Chinese art and providing the keys to understanding contemporary art in China. This book is a great way for beginners to better acquaint themselves with China, while specialists will appreciate the global perspective.

As the centre of Far-Eastern art, China has always fascinated Westerners, who take an interest in its religious leaders and savants as much as in its artists. Sophisticated and mysterious,Chinese art has persistently developped for 10,000 years through unequaled talent, which long ago established its artistic preeminence. Admired and imitated by all, today Chinese paintings and porcelain are the timeless reminders of a decadent past which continues to astound people around the world.

Dealing not only with architecture, sculpture and painting, but also with bronze and porcelain,this text offers a complete panorama of Chinese arts and civilisation until the fall of the Empire in 1911.

Historical Introduction

I. Architecture

II. Carving and Lapidary Arts

III. Manufactured Materials

IV. Pictorial Art

Bibliography

Index

List of illustrations