Shizhuzhai Jianpu, 1952 reprint

The Ten Studio Manual of Letter Papers. compiler/editor: Hu Zhengyan. Publisher: Rongbaozhai in Beijing.. A limited edition, number 5070 from July, 1952.

This is a very famous wood-block printed facsimile. It was originally created in the 17th century by Hu Zhengyan a calligrapher. The printing technique which was again used in this version, included polychromatic woodblock printing and dry-embossing. The box is traditional silk brocade with bone toggles.

The box and one volume have some water damage. The box has a stain visible on the back of one of the photos. This can also be seen internally at that site above the colophon. Both bone toggles with their silk straps are present but one on of the toggles the material has split, again shown in the photos.. The affected volume has discolouration and staining on the cover with some internal staining not affecting the illustrations. All volumes have some light scattered foxing but the illustrations remain bright and clear.

These volumes remain fascinating,extraordinary, historical facsimiles and above all remarkably beautiful.