Out of China's Earth: Archaeological Discoveries in the People's Republic of China, by Qian Hao, Chen Heyi, and Ru Suichu. New York: Harry N. Abrams. 205 pp. $50.

This book is a description of 10 archaeological finds in China, dating from the 14th century BC to the 10th AD and excavated since 1949. Beginning with the ruins of Yin, the ancient Shang capital, and continuing on through the Qin digs, it includes such places as the Han tombs at Mawangdui and chapters on work done far to the West. We see bronzes, terracotta figures, pottery, the jade suits that have been so much publicized, and other familiar objects, but also some that are relatively unknown, such as the murals and textiles from the Silk Road region.

All this is set forth in a refreshingly simple and direct manner, unencumbered by unnecessary or repetitious references, and assisted by an excellent map.