NOW IN PAPERBACK!For 13 centuries, throughout China male recruits studied diligently for a long series of grueling examinations in hopes of achieving the civil rank that would enable them to serve the emperor of China. For the fortunate few who passed these exams there were nine possible ranks, each identified by a square badge of finely woven kesi, embroidery, or brocade. Now available in paperback, LADDER TO THE CLOUDS offers a thorough analysis of symbols, styles, and techniques used in mandarin square ranks, along with the most complete information for their identification to date.An exploration of Chinese symbols and customs, many of which are still practiced today.Includes vintage photographs and detailed descriptions, photos, and illustrations.Finalist for the 2000 Kiriyama Pacific Rim Book Award.
"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.
Dr. David Hugus, an Asian textile scholar and collector, lives in Belmont, California.
BEVERLEY JACKSON is an esteemed art and cultural historian who specializes in Chinese art and costume. She tours and lectures on Asian art from her home in Santa Barbara, California.
"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.
Seller: Midway Book Store (ABAA), St. Paul, MN, U.S.A.
Paperback. Condition: Very Good. 25 x 24.5 cm. 310pp. Some light creasing to the covers; nice copy overall. Seller Inventory # 91616
Seller: LEFT COAST BOOKS, Santa Maria, CA, U.S.A.
Paperback. Condition: Fine. 1st. ix, 310 pages, illustrations (some colour); 25 cm. Firm binding, clean inside copy. Stated First printing. Richly illustrated with colour plates. *** "Ladder to the clouds is the first comprehensive book on the intriguing and little known subject of Chinese service rankings. It is a fascinating exploration of Chinese customs and rituals, many of which are still practiced in China today. It also offers a thorough analysis of the symbols, styles, and techniques used in mandarin rank squares, along with the most complete information for their identification to date." - Publisher. *** CONTENTS: PART ONE; Author's preface; Tradition dictates all in the life of a child; City life and the spirit world; Kites soar along with hopes for the future; Climbing the ladder to the clouds; One ascends the ladder, one falls; Bibliography; PART TWO; An introduction to Mandarin squares; Ming summary; Other rank badges; Examinations; Ch'ing introduction; Sun disk; Identifying birds; Identifying animals; Chinese symbology; Evolution of Ch'ing dynasty squares; Deceptive and nobles' badges; Bibliography; Index. Size: 8vo. Collectible. Seller Inventory # 109687
Seller: True Oak Books, Highland, NY, U.S.A.
Paperback. Condition: Good. First Edition; First Printing. 9.57 X 0.78 X 9.82 inches; 310 pages; color and B&W illustrations. Minor shelf wear on the covers. Light bumps on spine's extremities. Light residue stain on the back cover (something like candle wax on a spot). Good condition otherwise. No other noteworthy defects. No markings. ; - Your satisfaction is our priority. We offer free returns and respond promptly to all inquiries. Your item will be carefully cushioned in bubble wrap and securely boxed. All orders ship on the same or next business day. Buy with confidence. Seller Inventory # HVD-72120-OS-0
Seller: Book Alley, Pasadena, CA, U.S.A.
Paperback. Condition: Very Good. Signed. Signed inscription by Hugus to title page. Light wear to wraps overall; small nick to heel of spine. Sticker remainder to rear cover. Gently used with NO markings in text; binding is tight. Pasadena's finest independent new and used bookstore since 1992. Seller Inventory # mon0000621695
Seller: Greenworld Books, Arlington, TX, U.S.A.
Condition: very_good. Fast Free Shipping â" Very Good condition book with a firm cover and clean pages. Shows normal use and some light wear or limited notes markings. A solid, nice copy to enjoy. Seller Inventory # GWV.1580080200.VG