Lions of Beijing

Author: Yao Xichun (Compiler)
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-04-01
Features: ★12-inch format, copperplate printing ★Black and white and color illustrations ★Bilingual (Chinese-English) edition ★Showcases the history of Beijing through text and photographs ★Provides readers with a wealth of primary sources The Lions of Beijing is a travel guide for both Chinese and foreign readers, a valuable reference, and a practical tool. This book presents exquisite images and concise text, showcasing representative ancient carved lions in Beijing. These lions not only hold historical significance but also possess high artistic value. The Lions of Beijing is a bilingual (Chinese-English) edition, printed on copperplate paper, featuring representative ancient carved lions in Beijing. The beautiful images and succinct text guide you through the history of Beijing.
[1397819ct01.jpg]
[1397819ct02.jpg]
[1397819tp01.jpg]
[1397819tp02.jpg]
[1397819tp03.jpg]
[1397819tp04.jpg]
[1397819tp05.jpg]
[1397819tp06.jpg]
[1397819tp07.jpg]
[1397819tp08.jpg]
The Lions of Beijing
Author: Yao Xichun
Publisher: Beijing Fine Arts Photography Press
ISBN: 9787805013350
Publishing Date: 2006-4-1
Format: 12-inch
Pages: 94
Price: 55 yuan
Synopsis: According to historical records, as Western culture spread eastward, lions were introduced as tribute to the Central Plains. However, in ancient times, people rarely had the chance to see or hear lions firsthand. As a result, the lion-shaped artworks created by later generations often deviated from the true form of lions or were named differently but essentially the same. The mighty lions were not only the king of the jungle but also closely intertwined with people's social, spiritual, material, and artistic lives. This is the essence of "man and lion" or "lion and man." In the Buddhist world, lions are guardians of the law. On the tombs of ancient emperors, they symbolize auspiciousness. In government offices, they represent integrity and justice. At the gates of palaces and princely residences, they stand as loyal guardians, and their presence is equally indispensable in city streets, rivers, and bridges. This reflects people's reverence, worship, aspirations, and hopes for them. Objectively speaking, in China's sculptural and painting arts, the lion theme appeared later than its counterpart, the tiger, but it has already existed for nearly two thousand years. Over the long course of history, through the efforts of countless skilled craftsmen, lion artworks have become more refined in artistry and richer in meaning, gradually approaching perfection. In summary, whether carved in stone, molded in clay, forged in copper, cast in iron, or woven and painted in various materials, forms, and techniques, these lion artworks differ from real lions. The ancient capital of Beijing still preserves a large number of stone and copper-cast lions, which are often paired and placed in cities, buildings, and gardens, shining brilliantly and exuding a powerful presence. They stand out as a unique and prominent feature in China's traditional cultural and artistic heritage. The Lions of Beijing is a travel guide for both Chinese and foreign readers, a valuable reference, and a practical tool. This book presents exquisite images and concise text, showcasing representative ancient carved lions in Beijing. These lions not only hold historical significance but also possess high artistic value.