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Kashgar: Oasis City on China's Old Silk Road

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In the 19th century, the Silk Road city of Kashgar played a central role in the strategic rivalry between Britain and Russia. Today it remains one of the most complete historical urban centers in China, and its celebrated Sunday market is one of the most vibrant in central Asia. This book honors Kashgar’s extraordinary history and character in stunning color photographs that are accompanied by informative text.

160 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2008

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About the author

George Michell

84 books18 followers
George Michell is a world authority on South Asian architecture, and a founder-trustee of the Deccan Heritage Foundation. He is amongst the most distinguished architectural scholars produced by the University of Melbourne.

He was born in Australia and received a Bachelor of Architecture degree from this university in 1968. He then turned his attention to India and obtained his PhD in 1974 from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, for his dissertation on Early Chalukya temple architecture. In 1976 he played a pivotal role in the ‘Arts of Islam’ exhibition at the Hayward Gallery in London. During the 1970s he directed courses on Asian architecture at the Architectural Association, London, as well as coediting Art and Archaeology Research Papers (AARP), a journal specialising in architecture and art of the Islamic and Indian worlds. In 1978 he edited Architecture of the Islamic World: its History and Social Meaning (republished in 1995).

George lives in London with his partner and splits his time between research trips to the Deccan and writing about its ancient architecture, at home.

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21 reviews3 followers
October 14, 2024
Michell's work examines Kashgar's strategic importance, particularly during the 19th century when it became a focal point in the geopolitical rivalry between Britain and Russia. The book is richly illustrated, featuring photographs that capture the city's unique architecture and landscapes, making it not only an informative text but also a visual celebration of Kashgar's heritage.

The book highlights how Kashgar facilitated cultural exchanges between East and West, showcasing the blending of traditions and influences. Michell delves into the architectural styles that define Kashgar, reflecting its historical significance and the various cultures that have inhabited the region. The narrative connects past events to contemporary issues, emphasizing Kashgar's ongoing importance in global trade and cultural identity.

"Kashgar: Oasis City on China's Old Silk Road" serves as both a scholarly resource and a visual guide, appealing to historians, architects, and travelers alike. Michell's expertise in architecture enriches the reader's understanding of how this oasis city has shaped and been shaped by its historical context.
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