Masterpieces of Chinese painting, 700-1900 / edited by Zhang Hongxing ; with essays by Ling Lizhong, Itakura Masaaki, Charles Mason, Shane McCausland, Camille Schmitt, Clarissa von Spee ; catalogue introductions by Roderick Whitfield.

Published on the occasion of the exhibition held at the Victoria and Albert museum, 26th October to 19th January, 2014.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Introduction Zhang Hongxing -- Categories of paintings in China genres and subjects Shane McCausland -- Inscriptions and seal marks Zhang Hongxing -- Setting milestones : collecting classical Chinese paintings in Europe Clarissa von Spee -- Collecting Chinese paintings in the United States Charles Mason -- Chinese paintings the crossed the sea : the development of Chinese art collections in Japan Itakura Masaaki -- A brief history of collecting paintings and calligraphy in China Ling Lizhong -- The presentation and preservation of Chinese scroll paintings Camille Schmitt -- Catalogue with introductions by Roderick Whitfield -- Appendix : inscriptions, marks and seals -- Bibliography.

"Painting has always been regarded by the Chinese as a supreme art, equal to those of poetry and philosophy. But dating back over 2,500 years, many Chinese paintings were made to be viewed just for a few hours or weeks. As a result, the masterpieces of the form have been seen very rarely, and then only by a few. This spectacular book accompanies a major V&A exhibition that brings together some of the world's greatest paintings on silk and paper--many of which will be displayed only for a short time. All the paintings are reproduced in full, together with enlarged details. Written by international scholars, the book explains the background against which Chinese painters worked, as well as the original social context of the paintings and their display in the palace, temple, studio, or tomb. Essays on technique, materials, and collecting describe why these paintings are considered masterpieces today." -- Distributor website.