Customer Reviews

Chinese Bridges: Living Architecture from China's Past

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If there ever were structures that should follow the maxim that form follows function it would have to be bridges. It is impossible to imagine a more practical structure. Yet, "Chinese Bridges" shows what happens when the Chinese bring their own romantic, over the top aesthetic to the art of bridge building. The result is architectural intoxication of the highest order.

"Chinese Bridges" begins by cataloging the different styles of bridges and then moves to the spiritual dimensions the Chinese embued in their bridges. It concludes with detailed studies of individual bridges. These bridges range from humble vernacular bridges in China's heartland to the beautifully ornate bridges of the country's elites.

Ronald Knapp has been studying the rural architecture of China since 1965 and is one of foremost historian's of China's vernacular architecture. He is a strong writer and his text is well complimented by Chester Ong's beautiful photographs. "Chinese Bridges" is a complementary volume to Knapp's "Chinese Houses". Both are beautifully produced volumes and are a must purchase for fans of Chinese and vernacular architecture. These are two of the finest books in my collection. Highly recommended.

This most unusual book is my very favorite of all the China books in my collection! Ronald G. Knapp always turns out lovely books but this time he's outdone himself. China is full of marvelous and unique bridges and this book has gorgeous photos of many of them. What a visual feast. I am an artist and have visited China twice. Although I have LOTS of my own photos, this book will provide inspiration for years to come. Magnificent photography - photos I've never seen before. I was so sorry to get to the end of the book, I went back to the beginning and looked through it again! I love this book. If you love China and Chinese things, you'll love it too.