The Worlds of Classical Chinese Aesthetics

This book explores the foundations of classical Chinese aesthetic discourse, focusing on music, poetry, calligraphy, and painting from the Bronze Age to the early Middle Ages. It discusses why these arts were privileged and compares them with Western theories and works of art. It provides more coverage of primary sources than any other English-language book on the subject and includes helpful summaries of each chapter's key themes.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 12 March 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the foundations of classical Chinese aesthetic discourse, spanning from the Bronze Age to the early Middle Ages. It poses thought-provoking questions about the essence of art, its motivations, and the criteria for its evaluation. During this period, music, poetry, calligraphy, and painting emerged as the focal points of theoretical exploration. This book examines why these particular arts were accorded privileged status within Chinese aesthetics.

In contrast to modern artists who often identify with specific artistic disciplines, the pre-modern authors who shaped Chinese aesthetics considered themselves wenren, or "cultured people," with a broad knowledge and appreciation of all forms of art and learning. Throughout the book, there are insightful comparisons with Western theories and works of art, shedding light on the unique perspectives and insights of Chinese aesthetics.

Key Features:

• Addresses Chinese aesthetic discourse on its own terms, avoiding Western biases.
• Provides comprehensive comparisons of key concepts and theories with examples from Western sources.
• Offers more coverage of primary sources than any other English-language book on the subject.
• Each chapter begins with a helpful summary, highlighting the chapter's key themes.

This book is an invaluable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of Chinese aesthetic thought. It provides a deep understanding of the historical context, cultural values, and artistic principles that shaped the development of Chinese art and culture throughout centuries.

Weight: 220g
Dimension: 129 x 199 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032722979