The Art of Printing

In over 5,000 years of civilization, the Chinese nation has fostered a rich legacy of technological innovation. From the invention of papermaking and gunpowder to the creation of printing and the compass, China’ s contributions have shaped human history. Among these, printing stands out as a monumental achievement, often hailed as the “ mother of civilization.”

The Chinese invention of printing not only revolutionized communication but also inspired technological advancements worldwide, profoundly impacting the progress of human civilization. This comprehensive technology reflects the development of society in politics, economy, culture, and other aspects.

Through rich illustrations and lively narrative, this book explores the invention, development, and dissemination of Chinese printing. It offers both horizontal and vertical perspectives, providing a deep understanding of how this pivotal technology transformed society and shaped the modern world. Join us on a journey through the history of printing and discover the profound impact of Chinese innovation on global civilization.

Hua Jueming, a researcher and former associate director of the Institute for the History of Natural Sciences at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, is a renowned expert in the history of science and technology in China. His main research areas include ancient bronze metallurgy, steel technology, the history of machinery, and the philosophy of technology. In recent years, he has been devoted to the research and preservation of traditional crafts. He is the author of several works, including Essays on the History of Chinese Metallurgy, Ancient Chinese Metal Technology, etc. Feng Lisheng, a researcher and director of the Institute for the History of Science and Ancient Documents at Tsinghua University, is mainly engaged in research on the history of mathematics in China and abroad, the history of Chinese machinery, the history of metrology, the history of physics, and the history of science and technology among Chinese ethnic minorities. He is the author of works such as The History of Ancient Chinese Surveying and The History of Sino-Japanese Mathematical Relations. Li Ying is the Deputy Director of the National Library of China, Vice President and Secretary-General of the Chinese Printing History Research Association, and a member of the Chinese Popular Science Writers Association. He is the author of works such as The Printing Cultural Heritage of the Sui, Tang, and Five Dynasties and 2000 Years of Color Printing in China. Chen Wei: PhD, English professor of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, PRC.