This book was compiled by Zhao Ruzhen, a prominent connoisseur and the son-in-law of Yu Jimen, a famous antique collector and a junior official at the Dali Court in the late Qing dynasty. Zhao, who owned Cuizhenzhai in Beijing's Liulichang district, was himself a deeply accomplished collector and devoted to archaeology. His knowledge of antiques was vast, and he was familiar with every trade secret and technique. Since its publication in 1942, this book has been an essential reference for Chinese antique enthusiasts seeking to collect, appreciate, identify, and invest in antiques. It has stood the test of more than sixty years and four generations of collectors, earning an authoritative standing as the "Shuowen Jiezi of antiques." This comprehensive compendium reveals the secrets of antique identification, spotting fakes, and reproductions. No comparable book can replace it, and few can surpass it.
This hardcover edition preserves the complete text of the original work. Leading Chinese language experts have carefully edited and translated it from classical Chinese into vernacular Chinese to make it easier to read. It also includes 31 carefully selected national treasures from the Palace Museum and other collections for close comparison and appreciation, along with 400 of the most popular auction lots and their listed prices as a reference for investors. Combining scholarly value with practical use, it is a delight for collectors and connoisseurs. Its comprehensive and precise lot information covers every type of wood found in the wood furniture auction market, along with essential details such as age, form, and auction price. It is an indispensable reference for auctions, bidding, and investment in wooden artworks, and one of the most reliable market guides for the wooden art auction trade.
This book is really good news for antique lovers! The author Zhao Ruzhen can be said to be an expert in the antique world, and the knowledge and secrets in the book are very beneficial to people. I especially like the part about wood identification and investment in the book, which is practical and accurate. Moreover, there are a large number of pictures of national treasures and important weapons in the book, which is a feast for the eyes! As the book says: "The value of antiques lies in their antiquity." This book is our guide to understanding antiques and entering the world of antiques!