Arts of Asia January-February Edition 1977
A Time Capsule of Eastern Masterpieces
Step back into a pivotal year for Asian art scholarship. The 1977 editions of Arts of Asia remain some of the most sought-after volumes for serious collectors, gallerists, and historians. Produced during a “Golden Age” of art journalism, these journals offer a rare glimpse into collections and archaeological perspectives that have since become the backbone of modern museum archives.
The 1977 series is renowned for its eclectic yet academic approach, bridging the gap between high-level connoisseurship and the pure beauty of Eastern craftsmanship.
Featured Highlights:
- Pioneering Scholarship: In-depth articles on Southeast Asian ceramics, Chinese snuff bottles, and Japanese woodblock prints written by the leading experts of the 1970s.
- The “Dvaravati” Connection: Many issues from this era provided the first high-quality visual records of early Mon-Siam artifacts, complementing the foundational history of the region.
- Rare Auction Records: A fascinating look at the 1977 art market, featuring vintage advertisements from legendary galleries and auction houses that no longer exist.
- High-Fidelity Photography: Rich, full-page plates and detailed illustrations that capture the patina and texture of jade, bronze, and silk with classic film precision.
Arts of Asia January – February 1977
Featured Articles & Their Character1. The Portuguese in the Far East: Missionaries and TradersMichael Cooper, S.J. A sweeping historical essay tracing how Portuguese explorers, Jesuit missionaries, and merchants established Macau as a gateway between Europe and China.- Expect maps, archival engravings, and portraits.
- The tone is academic but vivid, emphasizing cultural exchange and maritime ambition. Source:
- baroque altars,
- weathered stone façades,
- and the iconic ruins of St. Paul’s. The article blends architectural history with devotional art and urban memory. Source:
