Outlines of Chinese Symbolism. An Alphabetical Compendium of Antique legends and beliefs, as Reflected in the Manners and Customs of the Chinese - SIGNED by the Author

WILLIAMS, C.A.S.

Published by Peiping: Customs College Press, 1931

About this Item

First edition, in a limited edition of only 250 copies, all signed by the author to the title page. Quarto, pp XXV, 423, printed rectos only. With 200 illustrations "in the Chinese style, consisting of stone lithographs, wood-cuts, photogravures, colour plates, and hand coloured prints". Bound in blue cloth covered hard boards with black lettering and decoration to the spine and upper board. Internally the book is in Fine condition, clean and with no previous owner markings, binding is tight and square. Boards sharp and clean. The book is marred only by heavy fade to the cloth on the spine. Overall grades Near Fine. Charles Alfred Speed Williams (1887-1962) was a British diplomat, scholar and writer who for many years served with the British Consular Service in China. He wrote several books introducing western readers to Chinese cultural concepts, and this is his best known work, a comprehensive guide explaining the symbolic meanings of animals, plants, colours, mythological figures and artistic motifs in Chinese art and literature. This book has been reprinted numerous times, the first reprinting by Kelly & Walsh in Shanghai in 1932 was illustrated in black/white only.

Seller Inventory # B9362

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Outlines of Chinese Symbolism. An Alphabetical Compendium of Antique legends and beliefs, as Reflected in the Manners and Customs of the Chinese - SIGNED by the Author
• Publisher: Peiping: Customs College Press
• Publication Date: 1931
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition: 1st Edition
• Condition: Near Fine
• Signed: Signed by Author(s)
• Seller catalogs:
  • China