Compiled by a Chinese authority on the subject, this superb archive contains more than 1,100 illustrations of animals, grouped chronologically according to dynastic era—from dragon designs of the Shang and Chou dynasties (ca. 2030 B.C. to 221 B.C.) to delicate images of butterflies by twentieth century artists. Additional motifs depict such figures as the phoenix, bird, tiger, and horse from the Han period, a variety of quadrupeds and fish from the Ming and Sung dynasties, and modern era motifs depicting lions, cats, pigs, water fowl, and insects.

Easily adaptable by commercial artists and graphic designers for use as spot illustrations, borders, and other graphic elements, these exotic images will add a distinctive Far Eastern accent to a variety of art and craft projects.