Traditional Chinese Toggles, Counterweights and Charms Margaret Duda 272 pages · 290 x 240 mm · 70 € ISBN : 978-981-4260-61-9 Ouvrage uniquement disponible en langue anglaise Sélectionner une langue : anglais

HIGHLIGHTS
• Over 1500 images, showcasing a wide range of toggle designs and materials.
• Themed chapters based on materials and subjects for easy reference.
• Comprehensive information on the legends, customs, religious beliefs and cultural norms relating to Chinese toggles.
• Introductory guide to purchasing and collecting Chinese toggles.

le livre

This volume is an excellent reference guide to the historical and cultural significance of Chinese toggles or zhuizi – carved pieces of jade, ivory, bone, wood, shell and semi-precious stones used by the Chinese in ancient times as counterweights to secure personal effects like tobacco pipes and money pouches to their belts. Over time, toggles became treasured objects of identity and expression, believed to bring the bearer good luck, happiness, fertility, longevity and health. The book explains how toggles were used in daily and ceremonial life, and interprets the designs that are fundamental to understanding these artefacts. Accompanied by stunning photography and detailed descriptions, Traditional Chinese Toggles : Counterweights and Charms will be the definitive illustrative guide to this little-known Chinese art form.

margaret duda

Margaret Duda is a writer, photographer and jewellery designer from State College, Pennsylvania. She has authored a number of books, short stories and articles, including Four Centuries of Silver : Personal Adornment in the Qing Dynasty and After and “Grooming Kits and Fragrance Carriers in Qing China”, published in foremost Asian arts and antiques magazine, Arts of Asia. She is one of the leading authorities in the field of Chinese toggles, having spent many years studying and researching the topic and this book combines her interest in writing, photography and personal adornment.