All things (Modularization and Mass Production in Chinese Art)

Author: (German) Red Hou, translated by Zhang General and others
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-12-01
Features: Red Hou, a professor at the Department of East Asian Art History at the University of Heidelberg, is one of the most influential sinologists in Western sinology who studies Chinese art. Upon its publication, the book attracted widespread attention from Western sinology and academia, and its viewpoints were widely cited. The author delves into the layers of Chinese culture and aesthetic concepts from multiple perspectives, both following the historical thread and the process of technological development, as well as by artistic categories and the differences in materials and craftsmanship. He analyzes Chinese art and craftsmanship, revealing the most unique and profound aspects of Chinese art history. The author explains that Chinese artists, unlike their Western counterparts, do not seek to faithfully reproduce natural objects but instead explore alternative ways to create countless, even infinite, artworks directly. He also points out to readers how the concept of modularity permeates Chinese bureaucratic culture, religion, and ideas about personal freedom. This book takes readers on a profound journey through Chinese art and culture, revealing how Chinese artists produced a vast array of artworks within a complex system. This system is deeply rooted in Chinese philosophical concepts—the universe is composed of all things.