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Burning of the Chinese books, 3rd century BC, (1847). Artist: JW Giles
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Burning of the Chinese books, 3rd century BC, (1847). Artist: JW Giles
Burning of the Chinese books, by order of the emperor who built the Great Wall, 3rd century BC, (1847). Drawn by B Clayton, from a painting by Fo Shang. A print from The History of China and India, by Miss Corner, Dean and Co, London 1847
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Media ID 14935334
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
3rd Century Burning Corner Giles J W Giles Julia Julia Corner Julia Parley Jw Giles Lovechild Miss Corner Miss Julia Parley Solomon Solomon Lovechild Thomas Lovechild Thomas Parley Shih Huang Ti
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Burning of the Chinese books, 3rd century BC
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a captivating print that depicts a significant event in ancient Chinese history. Created by JW Giles in 1847, this monochrome artwork showcases the destructive act of burning books ordered by Emperor Shih Huang-ti during the construction of the Great Wall. The image portrays a male figure surrounded by smoke and flames as he sets fire to stacks of literature. The intensity of the fire symbolizes the eradication of knowledge and intellectual freedom. In this moment, countless works from various disciplines are reduced to ashes, including poetry, philosophy, history, and more. This historical event reflects an authoritarian regime's attempt to control information and suppress dissenting voices. It serves as a reminder of how power can be wielded to manipulate society through censorship. The artist's attention to detail brings forth emotions evoked by witnessing such destruction. The black-and-white composition enhances the dramatic effect while emphasizing the gravity of this dark chapter in China's past. Through this powerful visual narrative captured on paper, JW Giles invites viewers to reflect on humanity's complex relationship with knowledge and its preservation. This print from "The History of China and India" offers us an opportunity to contemplate both our collective cultural heritage and the importance of safeguarding intellectual diversity for future generations.
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