China: A History in Objects

China: A History in Objects traces 7000 years of Chinese civilization through artifacts from the British Museum's collection. The items range from Neolithic jade to contemporary art pieces, with each object selected to represent key developments in China's social, cultural and technological evolution. The book presents 6000 years of Chinese history through chronological chapters, using material culture as the foundation for historical storytelling. Objects featured include bronzes, ceramics, paintings, prints, textiles, and items of daily life that demonstrate China's achievements in art, science, and commerce. The narrative connects individual artifacts to broader historical events and transformations in Chinese society. Each object serves as a portal into its era, revealing details about politics, beliefs, technological innovation and cultural exchange between China and other civilizations. This approach to Chinese history through material culture offers insights into how objects shape and reflect human experience. The book demonstrates the role of artifacts in understanding civilization's development and the connections between past and present.

Readers highlight the book's detailed photographs and clear organization by dynasty. Many appreciate the chronological layout and descriptions that connect each object to its historical context. Multiple reviews note its value as a reference book and teaching tool. Liked: - High quality images of artifacts - Clear explanations of symbolism and cultural meaning - Accessible writing style for non-experts - Coverage of both well-known and rare objects Disliked: - Limited coverage of modern China (post-1900) - Some found the text too basic for advanced readers - Price point considered high by several reviewers - Print size described as small by older readers Ratings: Goodreads: 4.3/5 (21 ratings) Amazon UK: 4.7/5 (28 reviews) Amazon US: 4.6/5 (12 reviews) Notable review quote: "Each object tells a story that brings Chinese history to life. Perfect for visual learners who struggle with traditional history texts." - Amazon reviewer

A History of the World in 100 Objects by Neil MacGregor Chronicles human civilization through artifacts from the British Museum's collection, offering a material culture perspective similar to Harrison-Hall's approach to Chinese history.

The Search for Modern China by Jonathan Spence Presents Chinese history through material and documentary evidence while connecting objects to broader historical narratives and social changes.

The Golden Age of Chinese Archaeology by Xiaoneng Yang Documents China's history through archaeological findings and cultural relics from prehistoric times to the Tang dynasty.

Art in China by Craig Clunas Examines Chinese history through its art objects, material culture, and visual traditions from antiquity to the present.

The Silk Roads: A New History of the World by Peter Frankopan Traces history through objects and artifacts that moved along the ancient trade routes connecting China with other civilizations.

🏺 The book showcases 6,000 years of Chinese history through carefully selected objects from the British Museum's extensive collection, making complex historical narratives accessible through material culture. 🎨 Jessica Harrison-Hall has been the curator of Chinese ceramics and the Vietnam collections at the British Museum for over 25 years, specializing in Ming and Qing dynasty art. 📚 The objects featured range from Neolithic jade to contemporary art installations, with each item telling a specific story about China's technological innovations, artistic achievements, or social developments. 🖼️ Many of the artifacts presented in the book have never been published before, offering readers unique glimpses into lesser-known aspects of Chinese history and culture. 🏛️ The British Museum's Chinese collection, which forms the basis for this book, is one of the most comprehensive outside of Asia, with over 23,000 objects spanning from prehistory to the present day.