Reginald F. Johnston , Puyi, the last emperor of China. — Twilight in the Forbidden City

Hardcover, 24 x 16 cm, 486 pp., English, 1st Edition, Illustrations, book condition: Very Good This book is the famous memoir by Sir Reginald Fleming Johnston, who served from 1919 to 1924 as the private tutor and advisor to Puyi, the last emperor of China. First published in 1934 by Victor Gollancz Ltd., the book provides a unique eyewitness account of the final years of the Qing Dynasty within the walls of the imperial palace. The work is more than just a portrait of the emperor; it is an extensive history of a turbulent era in China: As one of only two foreigners allowed into the ""Inner Court,"" Johnston provides detailed descriptions of palace rituals--such as Puyi's wedding--and the political intrigues of the time. Johnston was a great admirer of Chinese culture and an advocate for a constitutional monarchy based on the British model. He was critical of the young Republic of China and often defended the interests of the imperial family. The book features a preface written by Puyi himself (dated 1931) and covers key events including the 1911 Revolution and the emperor's ultimate expulsion from the Forbidden City in 1924. The linen binding is discoloured. Light foxing on the first and last pages. Corners bumped. Victor Gollancz Ltd,, London24 x 15, 1934 Condition: Very Good