Small China presents Chinese miniatures from 5,000 BCE up to the 15th century. The pocketsize representations of supernatural beings, people, animals, or everyday objects are virtually uncharted in East Asian crafts - even in China, these objects in jade, bronze, ivory, and porcelain are little known. Koos de Jong explores their arcane meanings and traces their production and the market for such treasures, which, contrary to official secular and religious art, include those devoted to taboo subjects such as erotica or humour. The miniatures had many different functions, from insignia, fetishes and devotional objects to burial gifts or toys. They could express good wishes or even serve as bribes. A rare glimpse into the everyday life of ordinary people and into Chinese handicrafts from thousands of years ago!

About the Author

Concluding his career as director of various Dutch museums and art institutions, art historian Dr. Koos de Jong is now committed entirely to the scientific research of Chinese art and archaeology. Following his publication on horse tack titled Dragon & Horse, he has explored yet another almost unknown subject with Small China.

Book Information
ISBN 9783897906310
Author Drs. Koos de Jong
Format Hardback
Page Count 304
Imprint Arnoldsche
Publisher Arnoldsche
Weight(grams) 1928g