Ebook: Ancient China

Illustrations and text explore the history of Imperial China from its earliest beginnings to the days of the last emperor. World's oldest empire -- Beginning of China -- Teachings of Confucius -- Art of war -- First emperor of China -- In the empire's service -- Land of invention -- Paper, printing and books -- Three ways -- Health and medicine -- Three perfections -- Life in the fields -- Great waterways -- Within the city walls -- At home -- Food and drink -- Dressed for best -- Adornment -- Festivals and games -- Living in harmony -- Gardens of Heaven -- Arts and crafts -- Silk road -- Great ocean voyages -- End of the empire -- Did you know? -- Timeline -- Find out more -- Glossary -- Index Here is a spectacular and informative guide to the history of the great Chinese empire and the customs and traditions of its people. Stunning real-life photographs and lifelike models offer a unique "eyewitness" view of life in imperial China, from its earliest beginnings in the Bronze Age to its final days in the early years of the 20th century. See the stunning bronze work of the ancient Chinese, an early irrigation machine, a set of antique acupuncture needles, the beautiful implements used for Chinese calligraphy. Learn why the First Emperor created the terra-cotta army, what kinds of goods were carried along the Silk Route, who invented paper, how a Chinese house was constructed, why tombs were filled with pottery figures, and what a civil servant's job entailed. Discover why emperors were known as Sons of Heaven, what kinds of weapons were used in early battles, why families worshiped their ancestors, how fishermen used bivas to catch fish, and much, much more