This catalogue describes some 900 works published from 1550 to 1850 as well as an additional 300 items reprinted in collective works. It therefore covers the first great phase of Western involvement in China. The catalogue is classified into 22 subject areas: Chinese studies, geography, travels, history, historiography, international relations, economic affairs, international trade, society, philosophy, education, religion (including Christian missions), language, literature, arts, architecture, hand crafts, Hong Kong, and Chinese-inspired pastiches.-- From publisher's description.