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Photographs of papermaking in China 1910-1929

 Fonds
Identifier: Coll-1653

Scope and Contents

The group of 12 photographic prints are unlabelled but show various processes in papermaking: pulping by foot; mixing; and, hanging to dry.

Dates

  • Creation: 1910-1929

Language of Materials

English

Conditions Governing Access

Open to bona fide researchers, but please contact repository for details in advance of visit.

Biographical / Historical

The first use of paper has been excavated in China dating to the 2nd century BC. It was used for the purposes of wrapping or padding protection for delicate bronze mirrors. It was also used for the padding of poisonous medicines and potions. By the 3rd century AD, the use of paper for writing became widespread. In the period of the Tang Dynasty paper was folded and sewn into square bags to preserve the flavor of tea, and the the government of the Song Dynasty produced the world's first known paper-printed money. After its origin in central China, the production and use of paper spread steadily, to Japan, to the Middle East and to Europe.

Extent

1 box

Immediate Source of Acquisition

Material acquired by purchase. Accession no: E2015.54.

Processing Information

Catalogued by Graeme D. Eddie 5 August 2015

Title
Group of gelatin silver print photographs of papermaking in China - Beijing, 1910-1929
Language of description
Undetermined
Script of description
Code for undetermined script

Repository Details

Part of the University of Edinburgh Library Heritage Collections Repository

Contact:
Centre for Research Collections
University of Edinburgh Main Library
George Square
Edinburgh EH8 9LJ Scotland
+44(0)131 650 8379