Chinese Paleography

This book offers an introduction to ancient Chinese characters, addressing the origin and development of ancient writing, the theoretical method of learning ancient Chinese characters, evolution of ancient Chinese characters, and analysis of character structure. Moreover, it integrates their physical appearance, pronunciation, and meaning to provide a comprehensive understanding of ancient Chinese characters. Respective chapters introduce readers to oracle-bone inscription, bronze Inscription, and inscription on seals, coins and pottery. Given its scope, this book represents an indispensable primer for those who are eager to understand ancient Chinese writing and culture.

Dekuan Huang is Distinguished Professor and first Chair Professor of Humanities at Tsinghua University. He is also President of the Chinese Character Association and Director of the National Museum of Chinese Writing. His fields of expertise include Chinese philology, ancient Chinese writing, unearthed documents and ancient Chinese civilization. In 1998, he was selected for National Talents Projects (level 1 and level 2). He has been granted “The State Council Special Allowance” by the People’s Republic of China since 1993.