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Sons of Heaven
Family and Dynasty in Ming China
Series: Dynasties
Brief Description
Sons of Heaven is the first accessible, newly researched account in English of the imperial family who ruled Ming China (1368-1644), one of the country's most dynamic and influential eras. Beginning with a fresh look at what a dynasty really was, the book follows the lives...
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Format: Hardback
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See moreInside the lives, scandals and splendour of Ming China's imperial ruling family.
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Description
Sons of Heaven is the first accessible, newly researched account in English of the imperial family who ruled Ming China (1368-1644), one of the country's most dynamic and influential eras.
Beginning with a fresh look at what a dynasty really was, the book follows the lives of emperors, empresses, relatives and those who came into the imperial orbit. Uniquely drawing from official and unofficial Chinese primary sources, including gossip-rich 'wild histories', it presents a more intimate, complex picture of court life—its politics, personalities, and pleasures.
Moving beyond stereotypes, the book highlights the power, intrigue and humanity of Ming rule. Richly illustrated with period art that brings the imperial world to life, this is a compelling portrait of dynasty as lived reality.
Series: Dynasties
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Sons of Heaven
Sons of Heaven is the first accessible, newly researched account in English of the imperial family who ruled Ming China (1368-1644), one of the country's most dynamic and influential eras. Beginning with a fresh look at what a dynasty really was, the book follows the lives of emperors, empresses, relatives and those who came into the imperial orbit. Uniquely drawing...Hardback$6999Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781836391760
Publisher: Reaktion Books
Format: Hardback
Date Published: 01 March 2026
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Reaktion Books
Illustration: 80 illustrations, 65 in colour
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Width: 156.0mm
Height: 234.0mm
Weight: 300g
Pages: 336
About the Author
Craig Clunas is professor emeritus of the history of art at the University of Oxford and a fellow of the British Academy. His many books include Screen of Kings: Royal Art and Power in Ming China, also published by Reaktion Books.
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