"This illustrated book is a comprehensive and authoritative study of Chinese architecture from Neolithic times through the early twentieth century. Six of China's greatest architectural historians have joined with a leading Western scholar to write this book, the first in-depth, collaborative history of Chinese architecture in more than fifty years." "Drawing on recent discoveries and current scholarly work inside China, this handsome volume recounts the story of China's architectural achievements and the historical, political, cultural, and social factors that shaped them. Each chapter includes sections on cities, palaces, religious architecture, tombs, and gardens as well as discussions of bridges, walls, fortifications, academics, and architectural writings." "Amply enhanced with more than 300 color photographs and exquisite drawings - many of which are reproduced here for the first time - and also featuring maps, charts, and an index with Chinese terms, the book will be an invaluable resource for scholars of China and everyone interested in one of the world's greatest architectural traditions."--BOOK JACKET.