In the seventh century the kingdom of Samarkand sent formal gifts of fancy yellow peaches, large as goose eggs and with a color like gold, to the Chinese court at Ch'ang-an. What kind of fruit these golden peaches really were cannot now be guessed, but they have the glamour of mystery, and they symbolize all the exotic things longed for, and unknown things hoped for, by the people of the T'ang empire.

This book examines the exotics imported into China during the T'ang Dynasty (A.D. 618-907), and depicts their influence on Chinese life. Into the land during the three centuries of T'ang came the natives of almost every nation of Asia, all bringing exotic wares either as gifts or as goods to be sold. Ivory, rare woods, drugs, diamonds, magicians, dancing girls―the author covers all classes of unusual imports, their places of origin, their lore, their effort on costume, dwellings, diet, and on painting, sculpture, music, and poetry.

This book is not a statistical record of commercial imports and medieval trade, but rather a "humanistic essay, however material its subject matter."

From the Back Cover

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.

Store Description

We offer an eclectic, ever-changing list of titles for your reading pleasure.

Visit Seller's Storefront

Seller's business information

Keeps Books
IL, U.S.A.

Sale & Shipping Terms

Terms of Sale

Upon receipt of payment, your order is securely packaged and shipped the next business day. All orders within the United States are shipped via the United States Postal Service (USPS). For international orders, we provide Air Mail, Ground or Surface mail and Global priority shipping. In addition to the payment services offered by ABEBooks we also accept US Postal Money Orders and payments through PayPal, and the fund must be paid before shipping. Our Paypal account payment details will be provid...

More Information

Shipping Terms

Shipping costs are based on books weighing 2.2 LB, or 1 KG. If your book order is heavy or oversized, we may contact you to let you know extra shipping is required.

Shipping rates within U.S.A.

Shipping rates within U.S.A.
Order quantity	6 to 14 business days	4 to 8 business days
First item	US$ 4.92	US$ 8.95

Delivery times are set by sellers and vary by carrier and location. Orders passing through Customs may face delays and buyers are responsible for any associated duties or fees. Sellers may contact you regarding additional charges to cover any increased costs to ship your items.