History is told by the conquerors. Across the Western world, museums display the spoils of war, of conquest, of colonialism: priceless pieces of art looted from other countries, kept even now. Will Chen plans to steal them back. A senior at Harvard, Will fits comfortably in his carefully curated roles: a perfect student, an art history major and sometimes artist, the eldest son who has always been his parents' American Dream. But when a mysterious...

Charts the development of decorative arts and crafts in China, and the accompanying growth of ideas spiritual, philosophical, and political. Each chapter balances history with commentary that explains the art forms and reveals the nature and significance of their rich symbolism.

"Emperors' Treasures features artworks from the renowned National Palace Museum, Taipei. It encompasses paintings, calligraphy, bronzes, ceramics, lacquer ware, jades, and textiles exemplifying the finest craftsmanship and imperial taste. The Chinese artbook book explores the identities of eight Chinese rulers--seven emperors and one empress--who reigned from the early 12th through early 20th centuries. They are portrayed in a story line that highlights...