Chinese Gardens

An illustrated introduction to the creation of Chinese gardens through history and their distinctive combination of nature, philosophy and art.

Qingxi Lou (Author)

9780521186612, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 25 August 2011

176 pages, 160 colour illus.
23 x 15.7 x 1.1 cm, 0.32 kg

China is renowned for its enchanting, tranquil gardens, designed to reflect both the charm of nature and the ancient Chinese view of life. Chinese Gardens explores the creation of classical gardens through history, discussing the theories and artistic conception behind these gardens and the development of diverse regional styles. Lou Qingxi provides a comprehensive introduction to the distinctive combination of nature, philosophy and art that is unique to Chinese gardens, complemented with full color illustrations throughout.

Preface
1. Landscape gardens
2. Private gardens of the Ming and Qing dynasties
3. Magnificent imperial gardens
4. Masters of garden design and theories of garden creation
5. Beauty and symbolism in Chinese gardens
Appendix: chronological table of Chinese dynasties.

Subject Areas: Garden design & planning [WMD], Gardens [descriptions, history etc WMB], Cultural studies [JFC], Landscape art & architecture [AMV]