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About

Edited by Colin Mackenzie, The Chinese Art Book presents a definitive selection of 300 works, from the earliest dynasties to the new generation of contemporary artists enlivening the global art world today. From painting, calligraphy, ceramics and bronzes, to contemporary installations, photography and performance art; outstanding examples from all periods are showcased side by side, to create fascinating combinations linked with detailed cross-references. It also includes an informative introductory essay, comprehensive glossary and an illustrated time line placing the works in their political and cultural contexts.

The Chinese Art Book examines the art of the oldest continuous civilisation on earth. Full of surprises for the reader new to Chinese art as well as for specialists, its unique arrangement breaks new ground by pairing works that speak to one another in unexpected historical, stylistic and cultural ways. Visually exciting pages allow each object to stand alone and at the same time to be viewed in conjunction with a carefully selected companion, producing illuminating and often inspiring pairings. The dialogue between each couple invites meanings that often go far beyond those of the individual works. Every form of Chinese visual art is featured - painting, calligraphy, sculpture, ceramics, figurines, jades, bronzes, gold and silver, photography, video, installation and performance art. The works date from Neolithic cultures of the fourth millennium BC to the most recent contemporary art being produced in China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and the West.

Katie Hill, Director of the Office of Contemporary Chinese Art, is the contributor on modern and contemporary Chinese works from 1950 to the present.