China: Spirit and Society | Werner Speiser | Art of the World, 1960

China: Spirit and Society by Werner Speiser is an illustrated volume exploring the artistic heritage of China. Published in 1960 as part of Art of the World: A Series of Regional Histories of the Visual Arts, this hardcover edition examines Chinese art within its wider historical, cultural and social context.

Translated from German into English by George Lawrence, the book presents Chinese visual culture through an illustrated survey of its artistic traditions. Colour plates and additional illustrations offer readers a closer look at the forms, techniques and expressions that have shaped Chinese art across different periods.

Part of a series devoted to regional histories of visual art, the volume will appeal to readers interested in Chinese art history, Asian art and the relationship between artistic expression and cultural traditions. Its illustrated format makes it a valuable addition to a personal library or a collection of vintage art and cultural history books.

This 1960 first-edition hardcover comes with its illustrated outer box. The book itself remains in excellent condition, with sound binding and intact page edges, while the cracked top of the outer box reflects its age and handling over time.

Details

• Title: China: Spirit and Society
• Series: Art of the World: A Series of Regional Histories of the Visual Arts
• Author: Werner Speiser
• Translator: George Lawrence
• Publisher: Methuen
• Place of Publication: London
• Edition: First edition, 1960
• Format: Hardcover with illustrated outer box
• Language: English, translated from German
• Illustrations: Colour plates and additional illustrations
• Length: 256 pages
• Subject: Chinese art, Asian art history and cultural heritage
• Condition: Book in excellent condition, with sound binding, no pinholes and no bent page edges. Some foxing is present, but there are no other visible spots or stains. The illustrated outer box is cracked at the top.