The Ancient Buildings of Peking (Beijing Gu Jianzhu), published in 1959 by the Cultural Objects Press, is a

significant, rare document capturing historical Chinese architecture. Edited by researchers, this Chinese-language hardcover covers palaces, residences, and temples, often featuring a separate English translation pamphlet, documenting structures prior to rapid modernization.

Biblio +3

Key Details of the 1959 Publication

• Title: Often cited as The Ancient Buildings of Peking

or Bejjing Gu Jianzhu（北京古建筑）.

• Publisher: Cultural Objects Press (Wenwu Chuban

She), Beijing.

• Release Date: 1959, early in the Chinese famine years, yet noted for high-quality production, unlike many later publications from that era.

• Content: Covers various architectural types, including Cheng-Shi (city buildings), Yuan-Lin (gardens), Zhu-Zhai (residences), and Zong-Jiao Jian-Zhu (religious buildings).

• Features: Often included Chinese text with a 12-page separate English translation pamphlet.

• Condition: Rare finds often feature tan cloth boards with red lettering.