From Publishers Weekly
Even though strict principles governed Chinese furniture design of the Ming and early Qing dynasties, artisans created a myriad of forms and variations within this framework. The golden age of classical Chinese furniture lasted from approximately 1520 to 1735. Wine tables, officials' low-backed armchairs, carved clothes racks placed at the end of a bed, multipaneled folding screens, incense stands and a great canopy bed with full-moon opening, carved with dragon and flower reliefs, are among the 162 pieces assembled here from public and private collections in China. What at first appears monotonous turns out to be an art of great variety and sophistication. The author, a former curator of Beijing's Palace Museum, has produced a scholarly handbook with 332 color plates. It covers construction methods, types of precious hardwoods used, stylistic variations, even the ingenious joinery techniques that have helped these pieces endure for centuries.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc. --Ce texte fait référence à une édition épuisée ou non disponible de ce titre.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc. --Ce texte fait référence à une édition épuisée ou non disponible de ce titre.
From Library Journal
This beautifully illustrated volume presents examples from the "Golden Age" of Chinese furnitureMing and early Qing (1368-1735). Craftsmen of this time, building upon earlier Song traditions, using imported hardwoods, and providing for a public newly interested in fine furniture, created the finest Chinese furniture ever produced. The text clearly discusses types of woods used, joinery, uses, and decorative techniques employed. Most of the text consists of notes to the 175 gorgeous color plates. A glossary of Chinese terms is included. As there is little readily available on this subject in English, this volume will be valuable for both collectors and scholars; definitely worth it despite the price. Patricia R. Hausman, Williamsburg Regional Lib., Va.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc. --Ce texte fait référence à une édition épuisée ou non disponible de ce titre.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc. --Ce texte fait référence à une édition épuisée ou non disponible de ce titre.
