Scottish photographer John Thomson (1837-1921) was one of the most influential photographers of the 19th century and a pioneer of photojournalism. Over 150 high quality black-and-white photographs from late 19th century China illustrate stunning vistas of Chinese landscapes, architecture and city scenes, intimate portraits of Manchu brides in full wedding costumes and Mandarin officials in government attire. Three informative chapters introduce the photographer and his work with detailed captions accompanying each illustration. This revised version is in a new more accessible format.


Betty Yao curated the exhibition that forms the basis of this book and worked closely with the Wellcome Institute who own the original negatives.


Text in English and Chinese.