Outlines of Chinese Symbolism and Art Motives

by C.A.S. Williams

This is the first paperbound edition of a standard reference volume long familiar to students of China and Chinese culture. The work of a scholarly English resident of China, it is an illustrated encyclopedia with hundreds of concise, clear, and authoritative articles outlining the meaning of Chinese symbols and art motives, arranged alphabetically by concept.
Special emphasis is placed on those historical, legendary, or supernatural persons, animals, and objects that recur frequently as symbols or emblems in the art and literature (of Japan and Korea, as well as of China): Lao Tzu, the phoenix, the Eight Immortals, the Twelve Ornaments, and so on. Chinese customs and observances are recorded, and there are numerous articles on general topics (agriculture, medicine, astrology, costume, drama); arts and crafts (carpets, lacquer, shop signs, calligraphy); religion and folk beliefs; natural history; music; and many other subjects. Includes 402 illustrations.

Genres: Reference, Art, China

472 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1974

Reviews

[Jokoloyo · Rating 3 out of 5]

It might be a classic and helpful for early 20th ce. users, but I found 1-2 things on the book that I don't agree (ok, I admit I read the explanation of weiqi board on this book is weird. The book explains by counting the number of squares, although weiqi players are using the lines). I am not an expert of Chinese culture, but nowadays whenever I read the content of this book, I keep my mind open.

[Nathan · Rating 1 out of 5]

written in 1923, so it's full of info such as "The Chinese still believe the sun revolves around the earth." and other nonsense.

[Poon · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very handy reference. I mostly use it to find info. on decorative motifs on antique Chinese ceramics. Most of the time I found all the info. I want. It also comes up with a very helpful index.