gems, jade, China, Chinese art, nephrite, yu, fei cui, Chinese jade carving, archaeology, archaic jade

A large-format photographic study of ancient Chinese jade objects from the collections of eight state-owned museums, presenting more than 150 objects, with a particularly substantial group from the Liangdaicun collection. Conceived by photographer Zhang Fenglei and Fenglei Studio as the first volume of a projected eight-volume series, the book seeks to create a “museum on paper” in which exceptionally detailed photography reproduces as closely as possible the appearance, surface, texture, alteration, and translucency of the original objects. Rather than treating archaeological jades primarily as subjects for artistic photography, Zhang emphasizes accurate visual documentation, arguing that lighting, viewpoint, and composition should communicate information inherent in the objects rather than beautify them. The photographs employ high-resolution imaging and unusually demanding reproduction and printing methods, including custom German coated paper and 350-line printing, intended to convey the three-dimensional character and subtle optical qualities of jade. The objects have previously appeared in publications, but this volume re-photographs them systematically and at high quality, providing a substantial visual reference for the study of Chinese jade and jade-working traditions as well as a record of important museum collections. This is an extremly high-quality publication in all respects and a pleasure to own.