Definitive illustrated catalogue: every medieval ivory in America. Sets new scholarly standard.

"The first volume of a new catalogue of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection of medieval ivory carvings, covering the years 400-1200, appeared in 2010. The present two volumes complete the catalogue, taking in every piece carved between about 1200 and 1550; and it is satisfying to report that a further volume, on the post-medieval ivories, was published by my colleague Marjorie Trusted in 2013."--Preface, p. 9.

A catalogue for a collection of Far Eastern ivories - ranging from religious iconography to sculptures produced for nineteenth-century collectors. Sir Victor Sassoon (1881-1961) lived an extraordinary and colourful life and left a remarkable legacy. He created a trust to preserve his collection of ivories for the benefit of UK citizens. Since its foundation and under the guardianship of the dedicated trustees, the collection has grown by the addition of significant specimens that originally went unrepresented. Chinese Ivory Carvings presents 350 of its most significant artefacts, each illustrated and discussed. Four introductory essays explore the acquisition of the pieces, placing the ivories in their historical and cultural context. In this scholarly celebration of Sassoon's bequest, one can appreciate some of the many facets of Chinese culture both religious and secular. Including minutely carved 'devil's work' spheres, massive figures and exuberantly carved vases, the book is also testament to the technical skills of the craftsmen who produced these wonderful objects.