China: Through the Looking Glass
Category: Books,Arts & Photography,Graphic Design
China: Through the Looking Glass Details
Review "In the sensual Costume Institute catalogue. . . . Bolton's depoliticized take on the exchange between East and West in his introduction sets the tone for a volume that is an exuberant triumph of style over substance, complete with a red, silklike cloth cover stamped with gold foil. Inside, elaborate Western couture, art, and films spanning several centuries conjure a fantastic vision of China."—Christopher Lyon, Bookforum Read more Book Description Accompanying one of the most successful exhibitions in the Metropolitan Museum's history, this lavish book explores the evocative and complex fashions inspired by Chinese culture. Read more About the Author Andrew Bolton is curator in the Costume Institute, The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Read more
Reviews
I was fortunate enough to have seen this exhibit; however, I did not have ample time to really savor the experience. I am thrilled I can relive my visit via this breathtaking book.The few pictures I was able to take pale in comparison to those in this book. The book is thoughtfully organized and I was especially impressed with the coverage of Chinese influence on cinema epitomized by the alluring Anna May Wong. It was a treat seeing a dress she actually wore in one of her films and it is gracefully represented in the book.The book itself is a stand-out production with a shimmery red and gold cover, vellum inserts and images which are not printed back-to-back so each image stands alone with no shadow of the image on the opposite page. There is a blank side on each image. Well done!Those who treasure art, fashion, Chinese history and culture, film and graphic design will want to add this book to their library.
