Book Collection of Shuyun Building (Volume 11)

Author: Shanghai (Shanghai Ancient Books Publishing House)
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-05-01
Features: The term "jinxiang" (literally "kerchief box") originated in the Southern Qi Dynasty and flourished during the Song Dynasty. From the Ming and Qing dynasties onward, new designs emerged in each era. A "jinxiang" was traditionally a small portable box used to store miscellaneous items like kerchiefs. In ancient times, people studied while traveling, sitting, or lying down, reading at any moment. Books were always carried on the go, so their size was reduced to fit into a "jinxiang." This allowed for easy portability while traveling and convenient reading while resting, as well as leisurely enjoyment. Although the "jinxiang" edition is the youngest among books, it upholds the Confucian principle of "learning and practicing at regular intervals," and its later contributions were significant. Unfortunately, in modern times, with the influence of Western culture, books have shifted to Western-style bindings. While improving in appearance, they have become increasingly cumbersome. Carrying them is like a burden for an ox, and reading in bed becomes difficult even for a short time. Worse still, some are outwardly rich but inwardly hollow, with heavy cases and lightweight content, misleading readers and further distancing them from the true essence of books. The Shanghai Ancient Books Publishing House has created the "jinxiang" series with a purpose in mind. By learning from the successes and failures of past "jinxiang" editions, the series aims to return to simplicity and elegance, promoting national culture. The design is small yet complete, the price is affordable yet carefully selected for quality, the selection of titles is purposeful yet emphasizes personal taste and charm, and the organization is logical for both individual purchases and collections, bringing great satisfaction. Enhanced with fragrant paper, vibrant color printing, meticulous proofreading, and dynamic layouts, this small series is a testament to the effort and dedication invested in it, making it hard for readers to resist once they see it. Mountains need not be high to be sacred; books need not be expensive to possess charm. Therefore, the series is named "Shuyun Lou" (Book Charm Pavilion), and refined gentlemen are sure to appreciate its meaning. This preface introduces three ancient Chinese poetry anthologies: "Yutai Xin Yong" (New Odes of the Jade Terrace), "Hua Jian Ji" (Collection of the Flower Pavilion), and "Xikun Chou Chang Ji" (Collection of Mutual Complimentary Poems from Xikun).