'Embark on a memorable olfactory journey through modern China's past with Huang Xuelei's brilliant book. This groundbreaking study uncovers scent's untapped power in shaping culture and politics. Meticulous research and captivating storytelling reveal a hidden aromatic world, breathing life into history like never before.' Christian Henriot, author of Scythe and the City
A note on the text; Introduction. The cesspool and the rose garden; Part I. A Sniff of China: 1. Aromas of the red chamber; 2. China stinks; Part II. Smellscapes in Flux: 3. Deodorizing China; 4. Re-perfuming China; Part III. A Whiff of Alterity: 5. The bouquet of Eros; 6. The politics of smell; Epilogue. The smell of winter white cabbage.
