Chinese Cultural Relics Classification Atlas: Grade 1. Volume 1

Author: Ma Zishu
Publisher:
Publication Date: 1999-12-01
Features: Based on the "National Standards for the Classification of Cultural Relics," this collection includes over 3,000 representative cultural relics from major museums in China that have been authenticated, particularly those serving as reference points for classification (Level 1, 2, and 3). The relics are categorized into eight sections and 14 types based on their material: Ceramics, Jade, Bronzes, Calligraphy and Painting, Gold and Silver, Craftsmanship (Lacquerware, Enamelware, Bamboo, Wood, Ivory Carvings, Textiles), Murals and Stone Carvings, and Stele and Inscriptions. Generally, relics in each category are arranged chronologically by dynasty or era; bronzes are organized by the chronological order of their forms. Before each section in each volume, cultural relic experts, based on practical experience, provide special articles that list typical relics of each level, type, era, and characteristic, explaining the reasons for their classification and concisely summarizing their value. The entire book uses the names of cultural relics as entries, with descriptions including the name, era, dimensions, weight, time and location of discovery, collection institution, form and decorative features, as well as an analysis of the artistic, scientific, and historical value of the relics. Each entry features one image and one text, emphasizing both visuals and detailed descriptions. By combining evaluations of historical, artistic, and scientific value, the book highlights key features through close-ups or emphasis. At the end of each volume, there is an appendix featuring the "National Standards for the Classification of Cultural Relics" and "Examples of Level 1 Relic Classification." This book serves as an important reference for cultural relic workers and enthusiasts in authentication and classification.
The Illustrated Catalog of Chinese Cultural Relic Classification includes over 3,000 authenticated, representative cultural relics from museums across China, serving as references for Level 1, 2, and 3 classification. Each entry features one image and one text, divided into four volumes: the Upper Volume of Level 1, the Lower Volume of Level 1, and the Volume of Level 3. This book is the Volume of Level 3,640. The relics are classified by material and nature into 14 categories: Pottery, Porcelain, Jade, Bronzes, Calligraphy, Painting, Gold and Silver, Lacquerware, Enamelware, Bamboo, Wood, Ivory, Horn, and Textiles, as well as Murals, Stone Carvings, and Stele and Inscriptions. The entries are generally arranged chronologically by dynasty or era, with bronzes organized by the chronological order of their forms. The descriptions of each entry typically include the name, era, dimensions, weight, time and location of discovery, collection institution, form and decorative features, as well as an analysis of the artistic, scientific, and historical value of the relics.
Historical dates in this book are generally presented in traditional chronology, with corresponding Common Era dates noted. Ancient place names are supplemented with modern equivalents where appropriate. Measurements are written according to the legal metrology of the People's Republic of China.