The Printed image in China: from the 8th to the 21st centuries

Abstract

The British Museum holds one of the finest collections of Chinese prints outside Asia, with particular strength in the modern period. Its wide range includes examples dating back to the invention of printing in China through its development, both technically and aesthetically, over more than a millennium, from the 8th to the 20th century. This book features 100 of the most iconic and important examples from the British Museums collection, all illustrated with color photographs taken specially for this publication. Many have never before been published. The accompanying text explains the important features of each print, including techniques, aesthetic principles and cultural context, to open up this fascinating subject to a wider audience. The introduction gives a concise survey of the subject, explaining how revolutionary the invention of printing in China was and how its influence spread worldwide. Contributions from three international experts give context for the major sections. The unique range and scope of the British Museums collection offer the material for a stunning overview which provides a long overdue introduction to the Chinese printmakers art.