Hopkirk, Peter
Foreign Devils on the Silk Road: The Search for the Lost Treasures of Central Asia
- ISBN 13:
- 9780719564482
- author:
- Hopkirk, Peter
- format:
- Paperback
- publisher:
- John Murray
- language:
- English
- Publication Year:
- 2006
- Pages:
- 272
- Dimensions:
- 12.7 x 1.9 x 19.7 centimetres (0
- Genre:
- Asian / Middle Eastern history: from c 1900 -
- Condition:
- New
- Availability:
- Item usually sent within 2 working days
Description
The Silk Road, once the greatest thoroughfare on earth, was a vital link between imperial Rome and distant China. It played host to precious cargoes of silk, gold, and ivory, as well as revolutionary new ideas that shaped the course of history. As the traffic slowed and merchants left, the oasis towns along the route blossomed into thriving centres of Buddhist art and learning. However, legends grew up of lost cities filled with treasures guarded by demons, sparking an international race for the art treasures of the Silk Road. Peter Hopkirk tells the story of the intrepid men who led these long-range archaeological raids, often at great personal risk. Their expeditions resulted in the removal of huge wall paintings, sculptures, and priceless manuscripts, which are now scattered through the museums of a dozen countries. This book recounts their stories, shedding light on a fascinating period in history that has been largely forgotten for over a thousand years.
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