The Silk Road was a system of historic trails that crossed the mountains and deserts of Central Asia to connect East Asia and the Mediterranean. Merchants carried fine silks and lacquers westward from China crossing paths with traders carrying Roman glass to the east or Asians seeking markets for carved ivory and gold ornaments in Europe. It was by these routes, too, that the religions of Buddhism and Islam spread throughout Asia.  Many aspects of the history of the trade route are related in connection with the Silk Road Project founded by the cellist Y0-Yo Ma who also contributes to this book.  Many excellent colour plates illustrating the formidable landscapes along the route and examples of the valuable items traded.  144 pages.  Large paperback.  Good clean connection.  Cat No 4378