Accumulating Culture

This insightful book, Accumulating Culture, explores the cultural and political significance of Emperor Huizong's extensive art collections during the Song dynasty.

The book Accumulating Culture delves into the cultural dimensions of Chinese imperial rule, particularly during the reign of Emperor Huizong (1082-1135). It highlights the role of the court as a patron of scholars and the arts, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the collections that Huizong amassed. After being seized by the Jurchen invaders in 1127, the fates of these objects varied significantly, reflecting the tumultuous period of Chinese history.

By the end of the sixth century CE, both the royal courts and the educated elite were engaged in the collection of art, especially scrolls of calligraphy and paintings by renowned artists. Under Huizong's leadership, cataloguing became a systematic endeavor, encompassing over 9,000 items, including ancient bronzes and rubbings of inscriptions. The surviving pieces from this vast collection are celebrated as masterpieces of early Chinese art, showcasing the emperor's dedication to cultural preservation.

Patricia Ebrey's analysis situates Huizong's collections within both political and art historical contexts. The process of collecting and cataloguing was not merely an artistic pursuit but a political strategy to assert the Song court's cultural influence. Accumulating Culture offers a nuanced perspective on Huizong's legacy, examining the political and cultural implications of his collecting practices while providing insights into the art market of the time. This work is a valuable resource for scholars and students interested in the intersections of art, politics, and culture in Chinese history.