Ebook: Chinese art of the warring states period 480-222 b.c.

Chinese Art of the Warring States Period: Change and Continuity, 480-222 B.C. studies a broad range of bronze vessels, mirrors, garment hooks, and other bronze artifacts; jade ornaments and garment hooks; and lacquer vessels. Objects from the Freer Gallery are compared with related examples from other collections as well as with archaeologically attested artifacts recently uncovered in the People’s Republic of China.
Profound changes in traditional attitudes toward man and his place in the cosmos, as well as competition among the rulers of individual states for resplendant court regalia, are reflected in the marked emphasis during the Warring States period on secular rather than religious art. An increasing unity of styles, especially discernible in the late years of the period, is developed, reflecting the impact of improved communications. The treatment of the human figure in artistic expression also manifests changes during the period.
Although current and future archaeological efforts in China will continue to enable scholars to reevaluate established concepts about the art and culture of early China, Chinese Art of the Warring States Period provides an important benchmark for our present understanding.