The Eastern Land and the Western Heaven: Qing Cosmopolitanism and its Translation in Tibet in the Eighteenth Century

This book explores the Qing-Tibetan encounters in the eighteenth century, highlighting the development of a "unity with diversity" in the Qing imperial formation. It investigates the translation of Chinese histories and stone inscriptions into Tibetan, the transformation of landscapes, and the transplantation of Chinese deities and medical practices to Tibet. It demonstrates how cosmopolitan interlocutors reified imperial integrity while expressing diverse longings and belongings, concluding that the Qings' rule was a translational process rather than Sinicizing or colonizing.

Format: Hardback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 22 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate tapestry of "a unity with diversity" that emerged during the Qing imperial formation (1636-1912), shedding light on this remarkable era through a comprehensive case study of Qing-Tibetan encounters in the eighteenth century. Through meticulous analysis of historical and ethnographic materials, the book explores a range of fascinating topics, including the translation of Chinese histories and stone inscriptions into Tibetan, the transformation of the breathtaking landscapes at Mount Wutai and Lhasa, and the transplantation of Chinese deities and medical practices to Tibet. By delving into these processes, the book unveils the complex ways in which cosmopolitan interlocutors reified imperial integrity while simultaneously expressing their diverse longings and belongings.

What emerges from this insightful examination is a nuanced understanding of the Qings' approach to cultural others. Rather than being characterized as mere Sinicizing or colonizing, the Qings' rule over their cultural counterparts can be seen as a translational process. In this process, multivocalic actors engaged in the sharing of narratives, landscapes, and practices, while the emperor and tantric masters wielded cosmic power over humans and metahumans.

This book is a groundbreaking contribution to the fields of anthropology, history, Chinese Studies, and Tibetan Studies. It not only offers valuable insights into the Qing imperial formation but also reflects on profound concepts such as sovereignty and ethnicity. Moreover, it extends the methodological horizons of historical anthropology, pushing the boundaries of our understanding of the past.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of cultural encounters, imperial formations, and the power dynamics that shaped history. Its rich insights and innovative approach make it a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike.

Weight: 510g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032677101