China in Print - The Hong Kong Rare Book, Photograph & Map Fair 2017
In its sixth year, China in Print is managed by Bernard Quaritch of London and the international fair has built an unsurpassable reputation for presenting some of the finest examples of printed works from the Far East and rest of the world. The market is buoyant, with a particular appetite for illustrated materials from Ancient China that enable scholars and collectors to reclaim the past and rediscover a rich cultural heritage.
14th century Chinese paper-money and the third edition of Marco Polo’s Travels, dated 1529, are two highlights to be featured at the China in Print fair. Some books will be priced in excess of US$ 1 million but items can also be purchased for as little as US$50. China in Print represents a unique opportunity to see all forms of rare works on paper that have been sourced by experts from the US, Europe and Asia, under one roof.
Private collectors, institutional clients and anyone with an interest in history and items of beauty can attend the fair and see and meet with the very best experts in their fields, free of charge.
One of the most valuable items to be released is a book, dated 1674, that features magnificent woodcut illustrations of scientific instruments designed by the Jesuits for the Emperor of China (US$ 750,000).
From mid twentieth century Japan, there is a folio collection of 114 exquisite and delicately coloured, fine drawings of traditional Japanese desserts for tea ceremonies by the celebrated Kyoto artist Eisen Kato, whose portrait works hang in the Kyoto National Museum. The first printed document in China stating that the earth is round is a further draw.
Crime novel and movie fans will appreciate an original notebook of British novelist Agatha Christie. Dating back to 1948-1951, the manuscript is the only one outside of the author’s estate. Brimming with ideas, it provides fascinating insights on how Christie worked up her plots and characters.
One of the most valuable items to be released is a book, dated 1674, that features magnificent woodcut illustrations of scientific instruments designed by the Jesuits for the Emperor of China (US$ 750,000).
From mid twentieth century Japan, there is a folio collection of 114 exquisite and delicately coloured, fine drawings of traditional Japanese desserts for tea ceremonies by the celebrated Kyoto artist Eisen Kato, whose portrait works hang in the Kyoto National Museum. The first printed document in China stating that the earth is round is a further draw.
Crime novel and movie fans will appreciate an original notebook of British novelist Agatha Christie. Dating back to 1948-1951, the manuscript is the only one outside of the author’s estate. Brimming with ideas, it provides fascinating insights on how Christie worked up her plots and characters.
Andrea Mazzocchi, director of China in Print and senior book specialist at the fair’s organiser Bernard Quaritch Ltd - commented:
“In an increasingly digital age there is something magical about interacting with physical objects which are conduits of the past. Their significance and charm make them wonderful focal points to be enjoyed and discussed in galleries, museums and homes – and collecting them is an enthralling and satisfying pursuit.”
At China in Print our specialist exhibitors have already curated an exhibition of scarce limited editions and unique objects – sourced through meticulous research – which are available for you to take home.
Our dealers trade under rigorous standards so you can shop confidently. We’re hugely excited by the quality and diversity of content that our biggest fair yet has to offer.”
China in Print is sponsored by AbeBooks.