Symbols of China - Tapa dura

From ancient architecture to everyday life; from myths and legends to historic places of natural beauty; from priceless artifacts to annual festivals and ceremonies; from performing arts to famous people, China has a myriad of iconic symbols that make up a historic and significant civilization whose longevity rivals any in the West.

Chinese symbols have a much more pervasive and complicated role than one might think at first sight: their study reveals not just their individual meanings, but also offers insight into divergent Chinese patterns of thought and cosmic views. Symbols of China provides an introduction to this immensely complex and fascinating subject. The book seeks to open a door to a world where for many, Chinese symbolic language is a second tier of communication, frequently richer in nuances of meaning than everyday speech and writing.

Feng Jicai, notable Chinese writer, artist, scholar and documentarian, was born in Tianjin during the Second World War and emerged in the 1980s as one of the most influential writers of his generation. In 2008 he was appointed Counselor at the Counselors' Office of the State Council.