Featuring photographs, this book traces the history of Chinese sculpture throughout the imperial period. By outlining the principles which underlie all forms of statuary, regardless of size and material, it aims to elucidate the extent to which sculpture in China has been adapted to serve the political, practical and spiritual needs of its rulers. Archaeological discoveries over the last fifty years have revolutionised knowledge about Chinese sculpture, revealing the length and strength of a hitherto unsuspected tradition stretching back to prehistoric times. This