Celebrating Dior’s floral inspirations in fashion and perfume, this unique volume features a portfolio of rose portraits by acclaimed fashion photographer Nick Knight.

For Christian Dior, perfume was “a door opening into a hidden world.” His first, Miss Dior, inspired by the lush gardens of his childhood home in Normandy, forged an inextricable link between his fashion and fragrance creations. Other scents were inspired by evenings in southern France, lit with fireflies and scented with jasmine. The rose bowers of his family home in Granville; his old mill country house; and the Château de la Colle Noire near Grasse―where jasmine, tuberose, and May roses reign supreme and are still cultivated―inspired Dior’s most memorable creations.

Flowers were also at the heart of Dior’s fashion, from the women-flowers that inspired the late 1940s New Look to the swishing, blossom-like ball gowns embroidered with lavish floral motifs. They have inspired all of the designers who followed him at the House of Dior, from Yves St Laurent to John Galliano, and Raf Simons to Maria Grazia Chiuri.

This extraordinary volume blooms with color and inspiration, and includes rose portraits by Nick Knight, previously unpublished archival documents, exquisite details of embroidery and fabrics, perfumes, fashion sketches, and sublime fashion photographs.

This book examines the often troubled relationship between Japan and China from a broad interdisciplinary perspective. Utilising the expertise of Chinese, Japanese and regional specialists working in a variety of fields, this original work approaches the contemporary sources of tensions between these two Asian giants from several levels of analysis. In particular the domestic-state interface in both countries and the important role of historical perceptions in the region are explored. China-Japan Relations in the Twenty-first Century avoids perceiving the discord between China and Japan simply from an international relations-based perspective, as has been the tendency of recent scholarly analysis. Rather, it strives to set the existing relationship in the context of historical interaction, the influence of culture on mutual perceptions, the role of ideologies - particularly nationalism, domestic political and economic changes that affect China and Japan's state-to-state perceptions and relations, and their changing regional and global relations. The book firmly emphasises the importance of history and historical memory in the construction of relations; a relationship constructed on present perceptions of the past that also shape expectations for the future. This is a unique and topical book, using the tensions of 2005 between China and Japan as the point of departure for a broad historical, political, cultural and international relations analysis. As such it will appeal to scholars at many levels of academe in the fields of Asian studies, international relations, regional studies and government.

This comprehensive book analyses debates on globalisation in China, focusing on the consequences of globalisation for the ideological, political and cultural realms. Since the mid-1990s, there has been intense interest in globalisation among the leaders and theorists of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), and amongst non-Party Chinese intellectuals. It is the ideological, political and cultural dimensions of globalisation that are the focus of this book. Employing criteria drawn from the ideological history of the CCP and Western globalisation theory, Nick Knight critically evaluates these debates. He demonstrates that, under the influence of the CCP, a regime of truth has emerged on the nature and benefits of globalisation. The book provides a critical assessment of the Chinese discourse on this important subject. Drawing on a huge number of Chinese and Western documents on globalisation, this book will be invaluable to academics and students interested in contemporary Chinese politics and ideology, and international relations and globalisation theory. It will also greatly appeal to policymakers interested in China's position in and perception of the world.

Li Da (1890?1966) was one of China's most important Marxist intellectuals and a founding member of the Chinese Communist Party. He played a major role in the introduction of Marxist philosophy and theory to China and in its dissemination among Chinese revolutionaries. His works are now regarded in China as classics of Marxist philosophy, and he is

A beautifully photographed insider's look at the highly influential personal style and wardrobe of Isabella Blow, one of fashion's most courageous, outrageous, and imaginative muses. Isabella Blow was said to have been a one-off of her own creation in a world of copycats. She had a gift for spotting fashion genius-her discoveries included Alexander McQueen, Hussein Chalayan, and Sophie Dahl, all of whom became instantaneously iconic. Her eye put her at the center of the high fashion scene, yet Isabella's pedigree, intoxicating energy, wicked sense of humor, boundaries-pushing aesthetics, and her willingness to wear the outrageous made her into a fashion icon. This elaborate volume-published with Somerset House and in association with the Isabella Blow Foundation and Central Saint Martins to accompany the fall 2013 exhibition-is an exhaustive survey of Isabella's personal collection. With over 100 gorgeous full-color and black-and-white photographs shot exclusively for this publication by Nick Knight, this volume is the first to catalogue her own famous wardrobe that includes thousands of pieces by the most important contemporary designers, including McQueen, Philip Treacy, and Manolo Blahnik. The impact of Isabella's influence can be seen within this captivating and inspiring volume, an essential addition to libraries of the fashionable, cultured, and eclectic.

Marxism is a theory which originated in the context of nineteenth-century industrialised Europe. Despite its European origins, Marxism has actually found greatest significance as a doctrine for change in the context of the underdeveloped peasant societies of Asia. This paradox has only been resolved through adaptation of Marxism to suit the specific features of particular Asian societies. There has consequently been a differentiation of Marxism along national lines. In this book, first published in 1985, the theoretical and practical implications for this national differentiation of a 'universal' (European) theory are explored, followed by a more detailed analysis of the manner in which Marxism has developed during different historical periods in particular Asian contexts.

Marxism is a theory which originated in the context of nineteenth-century industrialised Europe. Despite its European origins, Marxism has actually found greatest significance as a doctrine for change in the context of the underdeveloped peasant societies of Asia. This paradox has only been resolved through adaptation of Marxism to suit the specific features of particular Asian societies. There has consequently been a differentiation of Marxism along national lines. In this book, first published in 1985, the theoretical and practical implications for this national differentiation of a 'universal' (European) theory are explored, followed by a more detailed analysis of the manner in which Marxism has developed during different historical periods in particular Asian contexts.

New and annotated translations of philosophical essays written by Mao Zedong in 1937, which have come to be regarded as a cornerstone in the development of Chinese Marxism. The editor analyzes their textual, philosophical and historical significance.

Understanding Australia's Neighbours is a comprehensive introduction to the study of Asia. Written thematically, it provides comparisons between Asian and Australian societies and encourages readers to think about Australia's neighbours across a wide range of social, economic and historical contexts. Topics covered include: * The nature of tradition and modernity * Change to the family and religion * The role of colonialism and nationalism in political change * Nation-building * Economic development * International politics * Globalisation * Democracy and human rights. Fully revised and updated, it covers the region's response to the global financial crisis, war on terror and climate change. It features a brand new chapter on the rise of China, its changing dynamic with Japan and the US and what this means for the broader region and Australia. Written in an accessible and informative way, this is a book for all Australians who seek a better understanding of Australia's neighbours in East and Southeast Asia.

This book recounts the history of Marxist philosophy in China between 1923 and 1945 through the writings and activities of four philosophers: Qu Qiubai, Ai Siqi, Li Da and Mao Zedong. Two of these philosophers - Qu and Mao - were also political activists and leaders, but their contribution to this history is as important, if not more so, than the contribution of Ai and Li who were predominantly philosophers and scholars. The inclusion of Qu and Mao underlines the intimate connection between philosophy and politics in the revolutionary movement in China. It is not possible to speak credibly of Marxist philosophy in China without considering the political context within which its introduction, elaboration and dissemination proceeded. Indeed, each of the philosophers considered in this book repudiated the notion that the study of philosophy was a scholastic intellectual exercise devoid of political significance. Each of these philosophers regarded himself as a revolutionary, and considered philosophy to be useful precisely because it could facilitate a comprehension of the world and so accelerate efforts to change it. By the same token, each of these philosophers took philosophy seriously; each bent his mind to the daunting task of mastering the arcane and labyrinthian philosophical system of dialectical materialism. Philosophy might well be political, they believed, but this was no excuse for philosophical dilettantism.

"Scholars of Marxism will be in Nick Knight's debt for this pioneering study of one of the most important figures in the development of Marxism in China. Knight makes an important case about the relationship of Chinese Marxist thought to Marxist thought in general (with particular attention to Soviet Marxism). The book makes available to readers not just important texts of Chinese Marxism, but a whole series of texts of Marxism that were crucial to the political discourse of the thirties. Knight displays impressive erudition and command of these texts. In spite of the strong case he makes for his thesis, he retains throughout an admirable critical self-awareness that enhances the plausibility of his argument." -Arif DirlikDuke University

This book recounts the history of Marxist philosophy in China between 1923 and 1945 through the writings and activities of four philosophers: Qu Qiubai, Ai Siqi, Li Da and Mao Zedong. Two of these philosophers - Qu and Mao - were also political activists and leaders, but their contribution to this history is as important, if not more so, than the contribution of Ai and Li who were predominantly philosophers and scholars. The inclusion of Qu and Mao underlines the intimate connection between philosophy and politics in the revolutionary movement in China. It is not possible to speak credibly of Marxist philosophy in China without considering the political context within which its introduction, elaboration and dissemination proceeded. Indeed, each of the philosophers considered in this book repudiated the notion that the study of philosophy was a scholastic intellectual exercise devoid of political significance. Each of these philosophers regarded himself as a revolutionary, and considered philosophy to be useful precisely because it could facilitate a comprehension of the world and so accelerate efforts to change it. By the same token, each of these philosophers took philosophy seriously; each bent his mind to the daunting task of mastering the arcane and labyrinthian philosophical system of dialectical materialism. Philosophy might well be political, they believed, but this was no excuse for philosophical dilettantism.

"HIS STORY" is a thorough evaluation of religion, from a true Christian perspective. It begins with the basic Bible stories, and ends with exposing the secrets behind witchcraft. Since all of us have fallen asleep on the couch, at one point in time, reading the Scriptures, he has written the entirety of this book in poetic format, with the intention of making it more enjoyable, and easier, to read. Nick has also attempted to add humor, where appropriate, without disrespecting or disrupting the Lord Jesus or His Word. Nick resides in the quiet, reclusive Blue Ridge Mountains, with his lovely girlfriend, Andrea, and their adorable daughter, Harley. They have a timber wolf hybrid, as their loyal family pet. Though this is his first book, Nick hopes this initial accomplishment will serve as a launching pad for a reputable literary career.

"HIS STORY" is a thorough evaluation of religion, from a true Christian perspective. It begins with the basic Bible stories, and ends with exposing the secrets behind witchcraft. Since all of us have fallen asleep on the couch, at one point in time, reading the Scriptures, he has written the entirety of this book in poetic format, with the intention of making it more enjoyable, and easier, to read. Nick has also attempted to add humor, where appropriate, without disrespecting or disrupting the Lord Jesus or His Word. Nick resides in the quiet, reclusive Blue Ridge Mountains, with his lovely girlfriend, Andrea, and their adorable daughter, Harley. They have a timber wolf hybrid, as their loyal family pet. Though this is his first book, Nick hopes this initial accomplishment will serve as a launching pad for a reputable literary career.

Rethinking Mao offers an innovative perspective on the thought of Mao Zedong, the major architect of the Chinese Revolution and leader of the People's Republic of China until his death in 1976. Utilizing a number of recently discovered documents written by Mao, Nick Knight "rethinks" Mao by subjecting a number of controversial themes to fresh scrutiny. This book provides a sophisticated analysis of Mao's views on the role of the peasants and working class in the Chinese revolution, his theoretical attempt to make Marxism appropriate to Chinese conditions, and his understanding of the Chinese road to socialism. Knight includes a discussion of the theoretical difficulties in interpreting Mao's thought. Rethinking Mao represents a challenge to many of the conventional accounts of Mao and his thoughts. This book will appeal to scholars and students of Chinese history and politics, as well as the history of Marxism in China.

Rethinking Mao offers an innovative perspective on the thought of Mao Zedong, the major architect of the Chinese Revolution and leader of the People's Republic of China until his death in 1976. Utilizing a number of recently discovered documents written by Mao, Nick Knight 'rethinks' Mao by subjecting a number of controversial themes to fresh scrutiny. This book provides a sophisticated analysis of Mao's views on the role of the peasants and working class in the Chinese revolution, his theoretical attempt to make Marxism appropriate to Chinese conditions, and his understanding of the Chinese road to socialism. Knight includes a discussion of the theoretical difficulties in interpreting Mao's thought. Rethinking Mao represents a challenge to many of the conventional accounts of Mao and his thoughts. This book will appeal to scholars and students of Chinese history and politics, as well as the history of Marxism in China.

Understanding Australia's Neighbours is a comprehensive introduction to the study of Asia. Written thematically, it provides comparisons between Asian and Australian societies and encourages readers to think about Australia's neighbours across a wide range of social, economic and historical contexts. Topics covered include: * The nature of tradition and modernity * Change to the family and religion * The role of colonialism and nationalism in political change * Nation-building * Economic development * International politics * Globalisation * Democracy and human rights. Fully revised and updated, it covers the region's response to the global financial crisis, war on terror and climate change. It features a brand new chapter on the rise of China, its changing dynamic with Japan and the US and what this means for the broader region and Australia. Written in an accessible and informative way, this is a book for all Australians who seek a better understanding of Australia's neighbours in East and Southeast Asia.