A breathtaking visual journey through the history and art of China’s imperial capital.
The Treasures of Imperial Beijing, by Mario Sabattino with Nicoletta Celli, is a magnificent volume that plunges you into the heart of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Through stunning, full-color photography and compelling, authoritative text, this book reveals the artistic, architectural, and cultural splendor of Beijing’s most iconic imperial sites.
Explore the secrets of the Forbidden City, the serene beauty of the Temple of Heaven, the formidable Great Wall, and the intricate imperial temples. This book is an essential acquisition for enthusiasts of Chinese history, art, and architecture, offering an unparalleled look at the structures, artifacts, and traditions that defined the world’s most enduring empire.
Condition: The pages of the book are in pristine condition. the lower and top edges of the book cover are scuffed from sliding the book in and out of the sleeve. Minor wear to the jacket and sleeve. (see images). Overall, the edgewear does not detract from the stunning images presented in this book.
Step behind the walls of the Forbidden City and explore the architectural and artistic soul of China’s ancient capital. This breathtaking, oversized volume offers an unparalleled look at the imperial grandeur of Beijing, from the intricate geometry of the Temple of Heaven to the sprawling elegance of the Summer Palace.
Vast Historical Scope: Authored by renowned Sinologist Mario Sabattini, the text provides a deep dive into the Ming and Qing dynasties, explaining how Beijing was designed as a terrestrial reflection of the celestial order.
Stunning Visual Documentation: Featuring hundreds of high-resolution, full-color photographs, including panoramic foldouts that capture the staggering scale of the imperial complexes.
Art & Architecture: Beyond the buildings, the book catalogs the “treasures” within—ceremonial robes, exquisite jades, bronzes, and the symbolic statuary that guarded the emperors.
Collector’s Quality: Presented in a decorative slipcase, this is a centerpiece for any library dedicated to Asian history, silk road studies, or classical architecture.
More than just a book, this is a guided tour through five centuries of imperial rule. Sabattini masterfully balances the aesthetic beauty of the city with the complex political and spiritual history that built it.
