Describes historical, legendary, and supernatural persons, animals, and objects that recur as symbols in Oriental art and literature

"The Eight Immortals, the five elements, the dragon and the phoenix, yin and yang -- representations of these important cultural symbols are pervasive in Chinese art and architecture. Indeed, without an understanding of their significance, much Asian art cannot be fully appreciated." "In this comprehensive handbook, C.A.S. Williams offers concise explanations of these essential symbols and motifs. The book is an unabridged reprint of the third edition of Outlines of Chinese Symbolism and Art Motives, published in Shanghai in 1941, a work that has become a standard reference volume for students of China and Chinese culture." "Arranged alphabetically for easy access, the book not only explains essential cultural symbols, but also contains many articles on Chinese beliefs, customs, arts and crafts, food, agriculture, and medicine." "For those China-bound, Chinese Symbolism and Art Motifs is an indispensable guide to the Middle Kingdom's artistic and architectural wonders. For the general reader, it is an essential compendium of sinological lore. Book jacket."--Jacket.