Outlines of chinese symbolism and art motives: an alphabetical compendium of antique legends and beliefs, as reflected in the manners and customs of the Chinese

This fourth revised edition of Chinese Symbolism and Art Motifs, 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. The Eight Immortals, the five elements, the dragon and the phoenix, yin and yang--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 explanations--and over 400 illustrations--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. For those who are visiting China, Chinese Symbolism and Art Motifs 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.… (more)

User reviews

LibraryThing member iayork

An Easy-to-use Reference on Chinese Symbolism A-Z: This book is an A-Z listing of hundreds of Chinese names and symbols, with a brief explanation of the items relevance and importance in Chinese culture and history. Want to know the symbolism behind a bat, or a peach, or a mandarin duck, or other

more abstract concepts, this book is for you. A very valuable reference tool for those interested in things Chinese.

Show Less

1 more

LibraryThing member pbjwelch

While this is clearly a pioneer and classic work in its field, there are, today, newer works that surpass this volume, first published 67 years ago, without many updates throughout its many reprints, in its usefulness. For example, the author includes literary references as well as art references

(in other words, linguistic references that one does not see in art), so it is sometimes difficult to know if a particular object has different meanings "literally" from "figuratively". Additionally, the index is very limited, so there have been times when it has been extremely difficult to re-find something that one knows one has seen or read in the volume. A third shortfall is the use of line drawings as opposed to real photographs. (There is a reason why we have the saying, "A picture is worth 1,000 words".) Nevertheless, Williams was a ground-breaker in this area and this volume belongs in the library of anyone with a serious interest in the subject. Many of us are indebted to Williams' ground-breaking work in this fascinating subject area.

Show Less

Fewer