Visions of Salvation: Chinese Christian Posters in an Age of Revolution

Name: Visions of Salvation: Chinese Christian Posters in an Age of Revolution
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Book Synopsis: Between the May Fourth Movement of 1919 and the Communist Revolution of 1949, Chinese Christians had to compete with Nationalist and Communist ideologies over how best to save the nation. They, along with China's political parties, adopted propaganda posters and relied on their eye-catching colors and potent symbolism to win the hearts of the masses. Because these images were meant to attract the public, we can look at the posters and ask, What did Christian artists and evangelists believe would appeal to viewers? How did they choose to present the gospel to a Chinese audience? The answers may come as a surprise, as Jesus is scarcely present. Instead, playful children, the Chinese flag, lotus flowers, clean teeth, and other images became the vehicles Christians used to address the felt needs and aspirations of a nation struggling to survive. Unpacking the significance of these and other visual cues, Visions of Salvation offers a fresh look at Chinese history and theology. Drawing on a landmark collection of more than 200 color prints, assembled and analyzed here for the first time, leading scholars in Chinese Studies, mission history, Chinese Christianity, and visual culture reassess various facets of Chinese life in the second quarter of the twentieth century. In an age of revolution, political activists were not the only ones advancing prescriptions for change. Chinese Christians also pursued a New China, as one poster explicitly put it. Though later suppressed and largely forgotten, Christian posters placarded the country for thirty years with an alternative vision of national salvation.

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Experience a captivating journey through Chinese history and theology with Visions of Salvation: Chinese Christian Posters in an Age of Revolution. This groundbreaking book explores the collision between Chinese Christians and the rival ideologies of Nationalism and Communism during a period of immense political and social upheaval. Delve into the world of propaganda posters, where vibrant colors and powerful symbolism were harnessed to capture the hearts of the masses.

Step into the minds of Christian artists and evangelists as you discover the surprising ways they chose to present the gospel to a Chinese audience. In a refreshing departure from tradition, Jesus takes a backseat, making room for playful children, the Chinese flag, lotus flowers, and other captivating imagery that resonated with a nation fighting for survival. Explore the significance of these visual cues and gain a fresh perspective on the rich tapestry of Chinese history and theology.

Don't miss the opportunity to delve into this treasure trove of over 200 color prints, expertly assembled and analyzed for the first time in Visions of Salvation. Immerse yourself in the thought-provoking insights of leading scholars in Chinese Studies, mission history, Chinese Christianity, and visual culture as they reassess the second quarter of the twentieth century in China. It's an eye-opening exploration of a lesser-known facet of Chinese life during a time of revolution.

Join us on this journey towards a new understanding of Chinese Christianity and its role in shaping the nation. Experience the New China envisioned by Christian posters that once adorned the streets for thirty years. Discover their hidden messages and alternative vision of national salvation. Open your mind to the rich complexity of Chinese history with Visions of Salvation: Chinese Christian Posters in an Age of Revolution. Order your copy today and embark on a captivating exploration that will leave you enlightened and inspired.

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