China Unknown

by David Bonavia (Introduction)

Beyond the great wall, through the mightiest river trenches of Asia, on the borders of Siberia, there exists a land of astounding variety and visual power. China unknow. Nowhere in the world is such scenery to be found, nor the concentrated cultural richness of so many minority peoples. This book of photographs goes amongst the crags and hidden parts of China to show us that the geographical and human map still has its secrets. From the terrifying fastnesses of Qinghai to the warmth of a Yunnanese tribal woman cradling her child, China Unknown expands upon the reality of China that we thought we knew. stereotypes fall apart as an unheralded visual sphere opens. Grandeur and isolation, medieval transport and paper-making, owls and necromancers, they are all here.

This album of color photos was copyrighted by China Guides, Hong Kong. Photographers included Tom Nebbia, Wong How-Man, and others. The album commences with David Bonavia's introduction, followed by five chapters covering: the northwest, the southwest, the north, the northeast, and the southeast. Bonavia's introduction is a sketch of Chinese geography and its peoples.

142 pages, Paperback

First published March 15, 1985