THE ARTS OF CHINA

This course introduces major forms of Chinese art from the Neolithic period to the present.  It stresses the materials and processes of bronze casting, the development of representational art, principles of text illustration, calligraphy, landscape painting, imperial patronage, and the role of the visual arts in elite culture.  Works of Chinese art in the Metropolitan Museum of Art will receive special attention, as you will be able to study these closely online and see the real things at the museum.  Throughout the course we will attempt to study not only the history of Chinese art but also how that history has been written, both in China and in the West. Please note that students will be required to keep their webcams on throughout the class sessions. We will take appropriate breaks.