QINGGONG XIYANG YIQI: Scientific and Technical Instruments of the Qing Dynasty

29x22cm, 27, 4, 289 pp. c. 300 colour illustrations. // Volume 58 in the series ?The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum' illustrates and describes 247 scientific and technical instruments collected and commissioned by the Qing Court. Divided into sections on Instruments for Astronomy, Instruments for Mathematics, Instruments for Geoscience and Typography, Types of Clocks and Watches, Medical Instruments. Includes numerous varied objects ranging from French 18th century drawing instruments to highly ornate gilt-copper clocks, telescopes and various instruments made by the Imperial Workshops (presumably under Jesuit direction). A wonderful, extraordinary and fascinating assembly of objects made in Europe and the Orient and an intriguing insight into Qing imperial scientific interest. Much never before published. Captions and brief descriptions of each object in English, otherwise Chinese only. Highly recommended. Now out-of-print and hard to find.