Penjing: Worlds of Wonderment: A Journey Exploring an Ancient Chinese Art and Its History, Cultural Background, and Aesthetics

by Zhao Qingquan and Qingquan Zhao

Book Overview

A lavishly illustrated book, endorsed by six internationally recognized experts. It is likely to become a classic and will delight anyone interested in Oriental gardening, culture, and art. Penjing is... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0965529703
• ISBN13: 9780965529709
• Release Date: September 1997
• Publisher: Venus Communications LLC
• Length: 144 Pages
• Weight: 2.21 lbs.
• Dimensions: 10.0" x 1.0" x 12.0"

Customer Reviews

A Living Form of Art

It is a little known fact that the Chinese and not the Japanese invented Bonsai, which in China is called Penjing. With a rich history dating back over 2000 years Penjing is one of China's most esteemed traditional art forms, along with Gongshi (scholar's rocks) and landscape gardens amongst others. It is an art form steeped in mysticism, poetry and philosophy that was borne of a deeply felt love for the majestic Chinese landscape. Long the exclusive domain of the literati and scholarly classes, bureaucrats, monks and the aristocracy, Penjing sadly fell out of favour in its homeland during the tumultuous last quarter of the 19th Century. As with much Chinese art and architecture of the period many prime and irreplaceable examples were tragically destroyed; thus by the beginning of the early 20th Century it had become a little known and under practiced form of art, and in almost total obscurity it languished that way for most of that century. Hence in the West the limelight has almost exclusively fallen on its younger and more famous Japanese cousin Bonsai. This is quite understandable since most Westerners working in the field have been trained in the art of Bonsai; and most if not all English language books, journals or magazines on the subject have been focused on Bonsai as well. Unfortunately this obsession with Bonsai by most Western enthusiasts has resulted in an almost total ignorance of Penjing's very existence; and for those who have been aware of Penjing it was commonly viewed as a trifle footnote to the historical development of Bonsai, and arrogantly dismissed or belittled. Penjing in Western countries has for too long been considered a rather unimportant and even irrelevant curiosity. Much to my irritation most Westerners still refer to Penjing as "Chinese Bonsai" and I think this is a gross mistake, for they are markedly different in character. All this misunderstanding is slowly changing though; for in the past few decades in China, Hong Kong and Taiwan Penjing has undergone something of a resurgence, and a revival of interest from academics and aficionados alike. Penjing clubs and societies have sprung up like wildfire; thus saving this noble form of art from an undeserved fate, consequently Bonsai lovers in Western countries are beginning to take serious notice of this long neglected art form. The National Bonsai Museum in Washington DC for example, along with the purchase of a select collection of Penjing from an artist in Hong Kong, has in recent years even changed its name to the National Bonsai and Penjing Museum. This is sure recognition of the highest order indeed; and a positive sign that Penjing's fortunes have changed for the better, its future now looks much brighter. With three different categories of Penjing, such as; Tree, Landscape and Rock Penjing and now Land and Water Penjing, and also many different regional schools it is indeed a fascinating art form. Qingquan Zhao is one of its most talented and creative ex

Visually inspiring

This is one of the most beautiful books you'll ever see. If you don't know what Penjing is, you're in for a real treat. Think of Bonsai; those small oriental trees. Then imagine a Chinese landscape painting represented with these small living trees as well as with rocks, moss, etc. If you are already familiar with Penjing, you will love this book for it's inspirational quality. Quingquan Zhao has masterfully composed all the dramatic pieces in this colorful book. The large, full color pictures are good enough to frame and hang on the wall. The naturally inspiring beauty of the images make this book a great candidate for a coffee table book. Techniques and descriptions given are very useful to beginners and intermediate Penjing artists, and perhaps even seasoned veterans will find something new and useful. This book is directed towards creating and displaying Penjing, with accent on the artistic aspects rather than the technical. Less attention is given to their care and maintainance. One of the treasures of my library!

Superb instruction for a non-expert

As a beginner, this book not only led me through the entire process of penjing but it taught me the philosophy of the art. I love the pictures....beautiful scenery of China as well as Chinese gardens. A great gift to share with EVERYONE who loves plants!

An informative book from an actively creative artist.

Succinctly descriptive thoughts on the cultural, philosophical and aesthetical perceptions of the living relationships between stone, water, plants and earth, examined both in the big context of nature and in the smaller, representative context of Penjing. This book is never a remote dirge and never from a remote master. Words herein flow from an active artist. The simple knowledge of years is put forth for all. A balance of engaging photos and words on all of the pages, with scenes of nature, gardens, Penjing, historical art and with no shortage of "how to" instructions both in visual and in word forms. Also contains a brief pronunciation guide and a chronology of Chinese dynasties.

Really beautiful art form

Who would have thought that rocks and bonsai, combined into Chinese style landscapes, could be luscious, and sensual? This is a gorgeous, gorgeous book, on a rarely-seen, elegant art form. Extensive plates, good description.