Antiques Guide, Volume 1: Porcelain Auctions and Investment

This book was compiled and written by Zhao Ruzhen, a junior minister of the Dali Court in the late Qing, son-in-law of the renowned antiques expert Jia Yumen, and proprietor of Cuizhenzhai in Beijing’s Liulichang district. The author was himself a highly accomplished antiques connoisseur who devoted himself to archaeology. His knowledge of antiques was vast and varied, and he was thoroughly familiar with the trade’s many tricks and secrets. Since its publication in 1942, this book has been an essential reference for Chinese antiques enthusiasts, whether collecting, appreciating, authenticating, or investing in antiques. It has stood the test of more than sixty years and four generations of collectors, earning an enduring reputation as the authoritative “Shuowen Jiezi of Antiques.” It gathers a wealth of secret knowledge on identifying antiques, detecting fakes, and making reproductions. No other book of its kind can replace it, and few can surpass it. This hardcover edition reproduces the complete original text, carefully edited by leading Chinese language experts and translated from classical Chinese into plain language for modern readers. It also features 31 carefully selected national treasures from the Palace Museum and other collections for close comparison and appreciation, along with 400 of the most sought-after auction lots and their listed prices as a reference for investors. Combining aesthetic value with practical use, it is a treasure for collectors and connoisseurs alike. Its comprehensive and precise auction information covers all types of wood traded in the timberware market, as well as key details such as age, form, and sale price. It is an indispensable reference for auctions, bidding, and investment in wooden art objects today, and one of the most reliable market guides in the wooden art auction world.