Arts of China, Sixth Edition, Revised and Expanded

The sixth edition of The Arts of China, a renowned classroom text, has been revised and expanded by Michael Sullivan and Shelagh Vainker. It emphasizes Chinese art history as a continuous story, with updated attributions, dating, and a revised bibliography. It includes new maps and color illustrations, making it accessible to general readers and art history students. Sullivan's approach remains true to the Chinese perspective, providing a sense of history through China's dynasties.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 376 pages
Publication date: 07 August 2018
Publisher: University of California Press

Internationally renowned and a crucial classroom text, The Arts of China has been revised and expanded by the late Michael Sullivan, with Shelagh Vainker. This new, sixth edition has an emphasis on Chinese art history, not as an assemblage of related topics, but as a continuous story. With updated attributions and dating throughout and a revised bibliography, it reflects the latest archaeological discoveries, as well as giving increased attention to modern and contemporary art and calligraphy throughout China's history, with additional discussions of work by women artists. Visual enhancements include all new maps, and approximately one hundred new color illustrations—bringing the total to well over four hundred color illustrations.

Written in the engaging and lucid style that is Sullivan's hallmark, The Arts of China is readily accessible to general readers as well as to serious students of art history. Sullivan's approach remains true to the way the Chinese themselves view art, providing readers with a sense of the sweep of history through China's dynasties. This organizational strategy makes it easy for readers to understand the distinct characteristics of each period of art and to gain a clearer view of how Chinese art has changed in relation to its historical context. With many improvements that bring it fully up to date, The Arts of China will remain the most comprehensive and widely read introduction to the history of Chinese art.

The book is divided into four main sections: "The Beginnings of Chinese Art," "The Dynasties of China," "The Tang and Song Dynasties," and "The Ming and Qing Dynasties." Each section is further divided into chapters that cover different periods of Chinese art history, such as the Shang Dynasty, the Zhou Dynasty, the Han Dynasty, the Tang Dynasty, the Song Dynasty, the Yuan Dynasty, the Ming Dynasty, and the Qing Dynasty.

Within each section, the authors provide a comprehensive overview of the art and architecture of the period, including the major artists, styles, and techniques used. They also discuss the social and political context in which the art was created, as well as the cultural and religious influences that shaped it. The authors use a variety of sources, including historical records, archaeological discoveries, and contemporary art criticism, to provide a balanced and comprehensive account of Chinese art history.

One of the key features of The Arts of China is its emphasis on the diversity and richness of Chinese art. The authors recognize that Chinese art has evolved over thousands of years, and that it has been influenced by a wide range of cultural and religious traditions, including Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, and Islam. They also highlight the contributions of women artists to Chinese art history, which have often been overlooked or marginalized in the past.

The book is filled with stunning color illustrations that bring the art and architecture of the period to life. These illustrations include paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and architectural details, and they provide a visual reference for the readers to explore the different styles and techniques used by the artists. The authors also include maps and diagrams to help the readers understand the geographical and historical context of the art and architecture they are studying.

In addition to its comprehensive coverage of Chinese art history, The Arts of China also offers valuable insights into the cultural and historical significance of China. The authors provide a brief introduction to the history and culture of China, including its political system, social structure, and religious beliefs. They also discuss the impact of Chinese art on Western art history, and how Chinese art has influenced the development of modern and contemporary art.

Overall, The Arts of China is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of Chinese art. It is a comprehensive and accessible book that provides a wealth of information and insights into the diverse and rich history of Chinese art. Whether you are a student of art history, a general reader, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty and complexity of Chinese art, this book will provide you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of this fascinating art form.

Weight: 1324g
Dimension: 214 x 256 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520294813
Edition number: 6 Revised edition