Chinese Art. A Guide to Motifs and Visual Imagery.

Tokyo.: Tuttle.. 2008.. Well presented, full colour photographic illustrations, 288pp, bibliography, index,, upper edge a little foxed, spine sunned, very good paperback copy with French flaps. 27.8 x 21.6cm. "The book includes both Chinese and Pinyin text, over 500 illustrations (including references to on-line collections), an extensive index in both Chinese and English, a bibliography, and a list of recommended museums and collections to visit with interesting collections of Chinese art. This book includes: an introduction, symbols from nature: plants and flowers; fruits, vegetables, kernels and seeds; minerals; birds, real and imaginary; insects, reptiles, fish and amphibians; animals, real and imaginary; mortal and religious beings: children; male figures, individuals and groups; Buddhist deities and figures; female figures; inanimate objects: borders and other patterns; Chinese characters; colours; numbers; religious images and symbols; and, inanimate objects.

Chinese Art is a guide to the meanings behind the hundreds of common motifs and symbols found in all forms of Chinese art. A thorough examination of the diverse usage of natural symbols, colors, numbers, inanimate items and personages, Chinese Art communicates the deeper messages to be found in Chinese decorative art. It is an excellent reference for collectors, museum-goers and students of Chinese art, culture and history." Publisher's description. .