In this sumptuous volume, John Vollmer and Jacqueline Simcox showcase 72 objects focused on the emperors of China from the Mactaggart Art Collection at the University of Alberta Museums, one of the foremost collections of Chinese paintings and textiles in the world. Full-colour images and informative text introduce both the works from the collection and how they served as emblems of imperial order and power during the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911). Students, collectors, museum visitors, scholars, historians, and individuals interested in Chinese art will be stirred by the sensuous interplay of hierarchy and design of the painted and textile arts of the Chinese Imperial court, as explored and illuminated in this book.

John E. Vollmer is an internationally recognized curator and scholar in the fields of Asian art, textiles, costumes, decorative arts, and design. He is author of 30 museum exhibition catalogues and many academic and popular books and articles.

John E. Vollmer's profile page

Jacqueline Simcox is a well-known private dealer and lecturer specializing in Chinese textiles and art and the author of numerous exhibition catalogues and articles on Chinese textiles.

Jacqueline Simcox's profile page

• Publishers Association of the West, Western Regional Book Design and Production Awards - Silver Award, Adult Trade Illustrated
• The Alcuin Society Citations for Excellence in Book Design in Canada - 2nd Pictorial, 2009 Alcuin Society Citations for Excellence in Book Design in Canada

"An elegant reference book about the University of Alberta's prestigious Mactaggart Art Collection is about to hit bookshelves. The Mactaggart Art Collection is among the finest in North America. The authors are considered among the world's leading experts in Qing dynasty art and costumes. Given the magnitude of the Mactaggart Art Collection, which has appreciated to more than $45 million since it was donated, Vollmer calls Emblems of Empire 'a calling card for the university.'" Elizabeth Withey, Edmonton Journal, April 25, 2010

"Written as a survey into the history of ancient China, authors John E. Vollmer and Jacqueline Simcox span back over 5000 years from the beginning of sericulture (the farming of silk) to understanding the court, palace life and the Imperials' understanding of universal order." Amy Fung, Vue Weekly