Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the publication of the photo album "Yanjing Shengji" by the White brothers in 1927, featuring 70 photographs of Beijing, with a preface by the renowned scholar Hu Shi, highlighting the beauty of the ancient capital and the cultural exchange between East and West [9][12]. Group 1: Publication Details - "Yanjing Shengji" was published in 1927 by the Shanghai Commercial Press, featuring a luxurious design with a size of 40×32 cm and high-quality handmade paper [9][10]. - The album includes predominantly black-and-white photographs, with some hand-colored images, showcasing various scenic spots in Beijing [10][11]. Group 2: Hu Shi's Preface - Hu Shi's preface raises the question of why foreigners often find Beijing more beautiful than locals do, linking this to a historical context of aesthetic appreciation [11][17]. - He argues that the aesthetic value of Chinese architecture has been historically overlooked by locals due to practical and moral influences, leading to a lack of interest in its artistic beauty [11][12]. Group 3: The White Brothers - Herbert C. White, the author of "Yanjing Shengji," arrived in Beijing in 1922 and developed a deep affection for the city, capturing 700 photographs during his stay [12][13]. - The album features 70 selected photographs from a collection of 3,000 images, with some winning awards in photography competitions [13][14]. Group 4: Cultural Exchange and Appreciation - Hu Shi calls for Chinese people to learn from foreign visitors in appreciating the beauty of their own architectural heritage, emphasizing the importance of overcoming traditional biases [11][17]. - The collaboration between the White brothers and Hu Shi exemplifies a shared passion for photography and cultural appreciation, transcending differences in nationality and background [16][17].