Flow k (2 resultados)

Hard bound. Condición: New. Estado de la sobrecubierta: new. First Edition. The smoking of opium was a very large subject in the past centuries both in international context and for the Chinese as a nation. This work does not focus on the purely political role opium played, but indicates the impact on daily life and the genesis of a narcotic culture which soon evolved. There was an almost hypnotic, irresistible attraction which the exotic fragrance of smoking this narcotic yet benevolent substance had over large parts of the Chinese population both in China and abroad. The general healing and life-enhancing properties of opium combined with the leisurely ritual using the beautiful, symbol-adorned smoking paraphernalia. Only toward the mid twentieth century did the smoking of opium finally fade away under strong political pressure, but also giving way to a faster, less leisurely lifestyle. During almost three centuries, from smoking tobacco with opium to the final sublimely refined mode of smoking pure opium in a peculiar, Chinese-designed pipe, the transformation from medicine to antimalarial fumes to a heavenly fragrance widening perceptions of existence, opium smoking captivated a huge number of people. It initiated capital accumulation to start new ways of economic development, it aided countless artists (singers, actors, artisans) to perform their skills, it improved memory and alertness to pass examinations, it supported the poor to withstand backbreaking work. The list of opium's benefit is long and it touched all strata of society. The arts and craft illustrated and described are now rare witness to the enormous fascination opium smoking held over many millions of people for such a long period. The book serves as a visual guide to the material culture of opium smoking as well as the underlying fabrics of its integration into Chinese daily life. 426 pp., profusely illustrated in colour and b&w plates, notes, bibliographic references, glossary. *** PLEASE NOTE - THIS VOLUME IS HEAVY AND MAY REQUIRE ADDITIONAL POSTAGE. *** Size: 29 x 22 cm.…

Hardcover. Condición: As New. Estado de la sobrecubierta: New. 1st Edition. Factory-sealed copy of The Chinese Encounter with Opium: Dreams of Colored Clouds and Orchid Fragrance. The book remains in the original publisher's shrink-wrap; only a small section of the plastic is torn along the edge, but the volume itself is completely untouched and in Like New condition. Dust jacket colors are bright and glossy beneath the wrap, with no visible wear. Lavishly produced and richly illustrated, this work explores the material culture, visual symbolism, and social history of opium in late Qing China. Features high-resolution color plates, detailed commentary, and scholarly context. Published by SMC Publishing in Taipei, known for high-quality art and cultural monographs. An increasingly scarce title, especially in unopened condition. Ideal for collectors of Chinese art, opium history, Qing decorative arts, and Asian material culture. …