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A Short History of Paper in Imperial China

  • Jean-Pierre Drège
Language: English
Published/Copyright: 2024
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About this book

Paper has become the most common writing material worldwide in the course of a two millennia history. This study provides a magisterial synthesis of recent scholarship and original insights into the origins of papermaking and its subsequent history in imperial China, including a wide range of archaeological evidence and literary sources. The volume introduces the materials and technologies of paper production and presents the cultural history of paper in traditional China.

A comprehensive survey of literary sources on the production and use of paper is undertaken starting with the ongoing debate about the origin and genesis of paper, which was fuelled by recent archaeological discoveries of paper or proto-paper from the last two centuries BCE. In addition to its having become a popular writing material produced in many different qualities for both handwriting and printing, it also served as a material for wrapping or decorating, money and numerous uses in everyday life, such as umbrellas, windows, clothing, wallpapers, curtains and kites. Precious paper contributed to the aesthetics of calligraphy and painting, catering to the taste of the educated elite and artists.

Author / Editor information

Jean-Pierre Drège, École pratique des hautes études, Paris, France.


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Publishing information
Pages and Images/Illustrations in book
eBook published on:
August 19, 2024
eBook ISBN:
9783110701593
Hardcover published on:
August 19, 2024
Hardcover ISBN:
9783110701548
Original publisher:
Société d’édition Les Belles Lettres
Pages and Images/Illustrations in book
Front matter:
5
Main content:
198
Illustrations:
5
Coloured Illustrations:
30
Tables:
4
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