Rare Chinese/English Kangxi Illustrated Book; "Sheng U Siang Chai or Chinese Historical Illustrations" republished in 1/2 reduced form by the Tien Shih Chai Photo-Lithographic Works, Shanghai: Tien Shih Chai 1879; with Preface by the Publisher, from the original Kangxi Edition with clear copies of 250+ woodcuts each with explanatory captions below each image in English; on double folded pages with an illustration front and back, Chinese silk thread bound with purple silk damask to front printed with gilt woodcut illustration and title, the back with green silk damask. Only known edition with English subtitles and Preface. Height 8 inches (20.3 cm.) X width 5 inches (12.6 cm.). NOTE: The Kangxi Emperor, often credited as the Author, ordered the original book to illustrate Imperial Precepts from History like Filial Piety, Fraternal Love, Neighborhood Concord, Industry in Agriculture, Economy, Learning, Scepticism, Tax Obligations, Etc. and the images became sources for painting academies and craftsmen through the Qing Dynasty.

Age related wear to silk covers, the pages with slight foxing, 1 or 2 tears and minor discoloration. NOTE: Any condition statement is given as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Eddie's Auction shall have no responsibility for any error or omission. The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging.