The Arts of Asia
Materials · Techniques · Styles
Meher McArthur
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| ‘Gorgeously illustrated’ | | – The World of Interiors |
| ‘A mine of information and knowledge about the materials and techniques of Asian arts and crafts for students, scholars, collectors and general readers’ | | – Muslim World |
Why do we call fine ceramics ‘china’? Are paintings actually made on ‘rice paper’? What are ‘japanning’, ‘cinnabar’ and ‘celadon’? How can one identify ‘true’ lacquer? What is a ‘Peking knot’?
Here is an introduction to some of the most beautiful materials used in Asian art and the ways in which they have been transformed into works of art over the centuries, providing clear definitions and expert guidance.
Each material is studied in turn – jade, silk, porcelain, lacquer, ivory, bamboo, paper, gold, stone and wood – explaining the techniques used in the artistic process. The most important historical styles are explored country by country, from the most ancient prehistoric examples to the art of the present day.
An understanding of the spiritual and symbolic significance of these materials, thoroughly examined in this volume, will lead the reader to a more profound understanding of the artists’ intentions. Jade, for instance, because of its hardness and durability, is associated with immortality and longevity in China. Bamboo, which bends and sways but does not break even in the strongest winds, symbolizes flexibility in many East Asian cultures.
With its clear, accessible text, spectacular images, extensive bibliography, and list of key museums, galleries and specialist art dealers, The Arts of Asia will be an indispensable guide to travellers, students, collectors and enthusiasts, and anyone with an interest in the world of Asian art.
Meher McArthur is Curator of East Asian Art at Pacific Asia Museum, Pasadena, California. Her publications include Reading Buddhist Art: An Illustrated Guide to Buddhist Signs and Symbols, also from Thames & Hudson.
Reading Buddhist Art
The Arts of Southeast Asia
The Jewelry of Southeast Asia
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|  |  | | | | ISBN 0500238235 | | ISBN-13 978-0500238233 | | | | 25.4 x 22.0 cm | | Hardback | | 256pp | | 435 illustrations, 435 in colour | | First published 2005 | | | | £24.95 | | | |  | | | | 
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