China on Paper: European and Chinese Works from the Late Sixteenth to the Early Nineteenth Century

Edited by Marcia Reed and Paola Demattè

The striking illustrated books, maps, and prints featured in China on Paper are some of the most notable among the printed works produced at the dawn of the era of global trade to present China to Europe and bring Western science, religion, and art to China. From a Chinese translation of the rosary to French editions of Confucian classics, from a monumental map of the world to magnificent engravings of the European pavilions built by Jesuits at the behest of the Qianlong emperor—these works on paper reveal a compelling and largely hidden history of mutual curiosity and fruitful collaboration at a time when few people traveled far from home. Published in conjunction with an exhibition held at the Getty Research Institute November 6, 2007 to February 10, 2008.

Marcia Reed is the former chief curator and associate director for special collections and exhibitions at the Getty Research Institute. Paola Demattè is associate professor of Chinese art at the Rhode Island School of Design.

Recipient of the Leab American Book Prices Current Exhibition Award (Division One) by the ACRL-RBMS (Association of College and Research Libraries-Rare Book and Manuscript Section).

"Gorgeously illustrated volume...essential reading."
—History in Review

“The republication—at a very reasonable price—of this extremely attractive collection is a welcome development, which will no doubt stimulate further interest in the material and visual cultures of this fascinating period.”
—Asian Studies Review

“A prize winning and well illustrated study of European contacts with China in commerce and culture, starting in the late sixteenth century.”
—Bibliothèque d’Humanisme et Renaissance

“Based on historical facts, vivid color print illustrations, and comprehensive analysis, China on Paper unfolds a series of spectacular historical events featuring cross-nation understanding in the areas of science, religion, culture and art. . . . For any researcher who wants to explore the Sino-European interaction or is interested in China’s cultural immigration, China on Paper presents a hidden world behind prints, maps and illustrated books, reflecting the beauty of diversity and continuing cultural convergence.”
—Springer Science + Business Media

The hardcover edition of this book is out of stock indefinitely.