"This work explores the political logic of old China's archaic civilization, where court protocol was the essence of a liturgical government whose philosophical basis rested on the scriptural authority of Confucian teachings. The historical paradox (vast empire, weak state) is resolved in this book. Over 100 photographs and drawings are included, along with an appendix covering the Great Chinese Museum of New York and a bibliographic essay on important Sinologist works."--Jacket.