Twentieth Century Impressions of Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Other Treaty Ports of China
- Wright, Arnold (Author)
Introduction
In an age marked by imperial ambitions and transformative exchanges, this first edition of an encyclopaedic masterpiece offers an insight into Britain's complex engagements in China at the turn of the 20th century. With its rich and meticulously curated content, the book delves deeply into the multifaceted life of Hong Kong, exploring an array of themes that encapsulate the colonial experience—finance, education, local industries such as silk, tea, and cotton, and also cultural customs that defined this dynamic period.
Following the extensive examination of Hong Kong, the work transitions into a comprehensive 200-page exploration of Shanghai, illuminating the rich socio-economic interactions in one of the most significant treaty ports of the time. This section is further enhanced by concise entries on a dozen additional treaty ports, providing readers with a broader understanding of the British commercial and cultural footprint across the region.
Visually striking, the book contains numerous black and white photographic illustrations and a full-page map detailing China's railway network, adding a visual depth that complements its scholarly narrative. The exquisite craftsmanship is evident in its fine binding—full pebble-grained morocco adorned with gilt lettering and decorative motifs along the spine, while the front board features an elegantly embossed gilt roundel depicting a bustling harbour. This dedication to craftsmanship not only elevates the book's aesthetic appeal but also exemplifies the high standards of early 20th-century publishing.
As the editor astutely remarks, “More than one half the imports and exports of China passes through the various Treaty Ports, and it would have been a negation of one of the avowed objects of these publications if no attempt had been to show the present-day tendency of this trade and how the proportion borne by the British Empire compares with that of its competitors." This publication stands as a testament to British colonial aspirations, both as a historical document and as a piece of literary artistry.
By traversing the pages of this notable work, readers will uncover valuable insights into British perspectives during a transformative era, all while appreciating the rich heritage of bookmaking that embodies this remarkable compendium.