Discover the captivating insights of 'New China Eyewitness,' a hardback delight from Canterbury University Press. This beautifully crafted book spans 176 pages, measuring 173 x 240 mm, and is authored by the renowned duo Beattie & Bullen. Delve into the rich history of New Zealand's cultural exchange with China through the eyes of prominent visitors like Roger Duff, James Bertram, Evelyn Page, Angus Ross, and Ormond Wilson during their remarkable 1956 visit to the People’s Republic of China.

Explore the eloquent diary entries of Canterbury Museum director Dr. Roger Duff, who meticulously chronicled his diplomatic endeavors to secure a significant Chinese antiquities collection for Christchurch. This unique narrative showcases the collaboration between Dr. Duff and New Zealand’s long-time China resident Rewi Alley, leveraging his connections to premier Zhou Enlai. This pivotal moment led to the lifting of China's export ban on treasures, allowing the gift of seven extraordinary crates to the Canterbury Museum.

'New China Eyewitness' not only preserves the essence of this historic exchange but also provides readers with a rare glimpse into the intricate social, political, and cultural fabric of China during a transformative era. With exquisite illustrations and detailed accounts, this book is an essential addition for both art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Available for immediate purchase, we proudly offer combined shipping options. As a New Zealand-owned business located in Auckland, you can enjoy hassle-free shopping without unexpected import charges, customs duties, or taxes thanks to our in-stock status in NZ.

CONDITION: Brand New
Dimensions: 173 x 240 mm
Pages: 176
Bind: hardback
Author: Beattie & Bullen Publisher: Canterbury University Press
Publication Date: 07-12-2017

‘New China Eyewitness’ is the fascinating account of the 1956 visit to the People’s Republic of China by a group of prominent New Zealanders – including Roger Duff, James Bertram, Evelyn Page, Angus Ross and Ormond Wilson – and of how Canterbury Museum came to acquire the largest collection of Chinese art in New Zealand. At the centre of the book is the eloquent diary kept by Canterbury Museum director Dr Roger Duff, detailing his efforts to bring to Christchurch the collection of antiquities gifted to the museum by long-time China resident, New Zealander Rewi Alley. Through Alley’s contacts with premier Zhou Enlai and Duff’s diplomatic skills they obtained the sanction of the Chinese government to circumvent its own export ban on antiquities and permit the gifting of seven crates of treasures to Christchurch. These objects were the basis for the museum’s Hall of Oriental Arts and their arrival led to a collections policy dedicated to Chinese art. Beautifully written and illustrated, ‘New China Eyewitness’ offers a rare glimpse of foreigners’ views of China during a period of rapid social, political and cultural change, and at a time of unusual political and cultural tolerance.

We are happy to combine shipping. Smartfox is a NZ owned business located in Auckland. This product is in stock in NZ which means no unexpected import charges, custom duty or tax.