Das Westzimmer - Paper - Min Ch`i-chi (Min Qiji) (1640) - Germany - Publication: 1977

A first edition reproduction by the 'Museum for East-Asian Art' in Cologne of an album of Chinese colored woodblock prints published and almost certainly made by the printer Min Ch`i-chi (Min Qiji) in 1640. The album was purchased in 1962 for the museum's collection and is currently the only known example. The album contains illustrations for one of the most acclaimed Chinese short stories, Hsi-hsiang chi, 'Das Westzimmer'.

The series can be dated to 1640. It is the earliest known example of Chinese woodblock prints with use of color. The portfolio includes 21 separate full-colour prints. The explanation in German and English is attached separately. The author of the explanatory text, Edith Dittrich (1923-2000) , was curator at the 'Museum for East Asian Art' in Cologne.

The prints are in excellent condition
The portfolio is missing the closing sticks (see image 24)
The insert book is slightly damaged (see images 26 and 27)

Dimensions: portfolio 41 x 33 x 2. 2 cm
Weight: 1940g
Shipping method: insured postal parcel