The Launch of the First Journal of the RAS China in Shanghai
This evening Prof. Wang Yi will reveal some personal insights from his extensive research into the many-layered history of the Royal Asiatic Society in Shanghai. He will examine the history, organization and activities of the North-China Branch of the Royal Asiatic Society (NCBRAS, 1857-1952) as a cultural institution organized by Westerners in Shanghai with the remit of carrying out investigative research into every aspect of China. It established the RASShanghaiMuseum, built up a voluminous library that housed one of the most valuable modern day Western-language books on Sinology and boasted over 3,000 members over theyears. They came from all over Europe and America, left their footprints across China, and many became famous Sinologists on returning to their native countries.
Prof. Wang will also highlight the contribution the Society made to promote an understanding of China among Westerners and the role it played in introducing natural history and public culture to the Chinese. Known as “Shanghai’s One Bright Spot,’ the Society organised exhibitions and held regular lectures, many of which were published in the influential journal that it started in 1857. The last edition was published in 1948 - and on the occasion of Prof. Wang Yi’s visit, the first edition of our long anticipated new Society journal will be launched this evening.
Mr. Sha Genling of the Shanghai Municipal Library will also be saying a few words about the restoration of some of the former NCBRAS journals that are currently held in the new RAS China in Shanghai Library.
Born in 1974 inYima City, Henan Province, Professor Wang is now Associate Professor at Zhongyuan University of Technology.In 2004 he graduated from FudanUniversity’s Institute of Historical Geography with a Doctorate in history. In recent years Professor Wang has continued his research into the RAS and has published four papers and one book on related topics. Professor Wang's current research project is ‘Westerners’ changing perceptions of China as seen through the RAS’ supported by the National Funds of Social Science.
Entrance: RMB 30 (RAS members) and RMB 80(non-members) those unable to make the donation but wishing to attend may contact us for exemption, prior to the RAS Lecture. Membership applications and membership renewals will be available at this event.
Take Metro Line 1 to the Shanxi South Road Station. Walk south down South Shanxi Road for about 3 minutes. Walk across the Street and turn right at Central Fuxing Road for about 20 metres. The SBC Campus Gate is immediately on your left.Enter main gate and continue 250 yards to the Main Teaching Building on the right - 4th floor. Tel 021-6474-2086
