Nigel Cameron Knihy

Commencing with its cover photo of the Great Wall, and leading readers through 180 color plates (some folding out to nearly four feet wide) of this most populous and pivotal nation, Spectacular China lives up to its title. The commentary illuminates China's ancient treasures, its landscapes, imperial era, the beauty of its gardens, blending of cultures, diverse dwellings, and the contemporary scene (including a McDonald's). As the first US/Beijing co-publication of a major illustrated book, complied by the China Tourist Press, readers in China can marvel at the same views of their ancient and modernizing land as the rest of the world. Lacks a bibliography and index. Distributed by Simon & Schuster. 16x10.5" Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.

Its symmetry so delights the eye that Classic Chinese furniture-whether genuine Ming dynasty masterpieces or well made reproductions - possesses a timeless quality that ensures it can never go out of fashion. Today it is enjoying a heightened revival of interest, both in Asia and the West. This volume celebrates the unique design and craftsmanship of Chinese furniture in the context of the evolving tastes of different generations of collectors. It explains why choice household objects, ranging from cabinets to canoppy beds, are as much a delight to behold as to use. An abundance of superb photographs illustrates a breathtaking resplendence of armchairs, beds, screens, and wardrobes, making this book in itself a collector's item for those who treasure style and grace in their homes.