Fading Scenery

Author: Gu Yinhai
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-01-01
Features: The postcards collected in this book mostly feature photographs of historical buildings and landscapes, offering a glimpse into Western scenery a century ago. On its own, this might not seem extraordinary, as for stamp collectors, it is still not too late to collect postcards on specific themes. However, the reason these postcards deserve attention lies in the status, prominence, and historical facts reflected by the senders: Zhang Jingjiang and Lu Qinzhai's involvement in the trade of Chinese antiquities. This is an important historical topic that can be thoroughly investigated and studied. The author, a professional engaged in the and research of literature for many years, does not overlook the postcards as small and miscellaneous when working with ancient books, stone rubbings, manuscripts, and letters. Instead, they are treated as historical evidence for serious research, and the writing and compilation style is designed to be lively and engaging—such an attitude is worth promoting. These century-old postcards, with patterns mostly depicting French, British, and American landscapes, have seen the passage of time. The once bright scenery has faded with the wind. We can follow the footsteps of the past, pay tribute to the old traces, and express our sentiments. Yet, behind these different scenic views lies a little-known story of the rise and fall of national treasures.