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  Empire of Emptiness: Buddhist Art and Political Authority in Qing China is a book by Robert L. Brown, published in 2003. It examines the role of Buddhist art in the Qing dynasty (1644-1911) of China, and how it was used to legitimize the rule of the Manchu emperors. The book looks at how Buddhist art was used to create an image of imperial power and authority, as well as how it was used to promote Confucian values and ideals. It also looks at how Buddhist art was used to create a sense of unity among different ethnic groups within the empire. The book begins by looking at the history of Buddhism in China, from its introduction during the Han dynasty (206 BCE-220 CE) to its eventual decline during the Qing dynasty. It then examines how Buddhist art was used to legitimize Manchu rule, including through its use in imperial palaces and temples. It also looks at how Buddhist art was used to promote Confucian values such as filial piety and loyalty to the emperor. The book also looks at ho