Description
San Francisco: Asian Art Museum of San Francisco, 1988. Paper covers, [20] pp (unnumbered) : color and black and white illustrations ; 23 cm.
Rare, out-of-print & unusual books · Since 1997
114
Turn the pages with the arrows, keyboard, or a swipe.
Catalog notes
Condition & notes
In very good condition with light overall scuffing to covers. Binding tight (staple bound). Pages clean and unmarked. An exhibition publication from the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco, focusing on the use of auspicious symbols and visual puns (rebuses) in Chinese art. Bartholomew explains how visual imagery, often through homonyms, conveys wishes for good fortune, prosperity, longevity, and other blessings. The book discusses how various objects and figures are intentionally combined in Chinese art to express these desires. Examples include bats representing blessings (fú) and peaches symbolizing longevity. This work provides an introduction to understanding common motifs and their meanings as found on textiles, paintings, ceramics, furniture, and other artifacts. A useful reference for those interested in Chinese cultural symbols and artistic traditions.