Ai Weiwei: Circle of Animals

Delson, Susan B. (Editor)

ISBN 10: 3791346369 / ISBN 13: 9783791346366

Published by Prestel Publishing, 2011

About this Item

A crisp, unmarked copy. Gift quality. Full cloth binding. 219pp. Dust jacket in a new mylar cover. Size: 4to - over 9" - 12" Tall. Bookseller Inventory # 050685

Quantity Available: 1

Bibliographic Details

Title: Ai Weiwei: Circle of Animals

Publisher: Prestel Publishing

Publication Date: 2011

Binding: Hardcover

Book Condition: Fine

Dust Jacket Condition: Fine

Edition: First Edition.

About this title

Synopsis:

From its fascinating historical origins to its contemporary symbolic significance, every aspect of Ai Weiwei’s beautiful and monumental work of art is explored in this illustrated volume that also guides readers through the highlights of the artist’s career. Ai Weiwei’s Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads features twelve large-scale bronze animal heads, each depicting a segment of the ancient Chinese zodiac. As a major work of public art, it is an extraordinary accomplishment in its own right. But as this book explains, the origins and motivation behind the piece are as compelling as the work itself. Ai Weiwei based the sculpture on a complex zodiac fountain that was built for an imperial retreat in eighteenth-century China. When the retreat was looted by European soldiers, the fountain’s bronze animal heads were stolen—only seven of the twelve are known to survive. By reimagining the work Ai Weiwei confronts uncomfortable truths within Chinese and Western history. This book compares Ai Weiwei’s work to the original zodiac heads; features interviews with Ai Weiwei conducted at various periods during the sculpture’s development; offers a historical overview of the events surrounding the mountain’s looting; and follows the trail of the original heads as they are sold and resold amidst political furor. The book tells the riveting story behind a highly acclaimed piece of modern art, while providing an introduction to one of our generation’s most important artists.

About the Author:

Susan Delson is a writer, editor and educator. Paola Dematte is associate professor of Chinese art and archaeology at the Rhode Island School of Design. Colin Jones is a doctoral candidate in the department of history at Columbia University. Kristina Kleutghen is a specialist in the history of Chinese art and visual culture.