The sophistication of ancient Chinese architecture gives it a special place within the architecture of the world. There are magnificent imperial palaces, solemn and breathtaking imperial tombs, mysterious sacrificial and ancestral altars and temples as well as a variety of vernacular dwellings of natural simplicity. Religious buildings are dotted about the country, with a riotous profusion of Buddhist, Taoist and Islamic temples or mosques. On top of all this, city walls and fortifications, civic buildings for miscellaneous purposes are rich in variety and form impressive landmarks. The exceptional series offers wide coverage of themes pertaining to all aspects of Chinese architecture and is unrivaled both for its extensiveness and accuracy as well as for the presentation of the material.
