Rare Books on China & East Asia: A Treasure Trove of Chinese History

The Rare Books on China and East Asia digital collection is the result of a dedicated digitisation effort by the Library, aimed at preserving and sharing these invaluable historical works with a global audience. By making the collection accessible through the Digital Collections Portal, the Library ensures that fragile volumes originally housed in the Special Collections can be appreciated by researchers and the community, without risking further deterioration. This digitisation not only protects these rare treasures but also democratises access, allowing anyone to explore the vibrant histories, cultures and societies of China and East Asia as documented by Western observers and scholars from the 18th to early 20th centuries.

Diverse Perspectives Across a Range of Topics

Wander through the digital collection and you will encounter a kaleidoscope of themes, each inviting you deeper into the dynamic world of China and East Asia. Among the treasures awaiting discovery:

• Social Life and Customs in China: Descriptions of daily life, traditions, rituals, and cultural norms.
• Missionary Work: Accounts of missionary activities, their challenges, and their influence on local communities.
• Travel in China: Narratives capturing the experiences and impressions of Western travelers and explorers.
• Chinese Literature: Featuring translated novels, proverbs, and moral maxims, bridging the literary traditions of East and West.
• Religions in China: Observations on spiritual practices, beliefs, and festivals.
• Commerce and Statistics: Historical data on trade and economic activities in the region.

Highlights from the Collection

Here are some notable works from this remarkable collection:

• An Historical, Geographical and Philosophical View of the Chinese Empire, Volume 1 & Volume 2 (Approximately 1796)

Authored by William Winterbotham, a British minister and writer, this two-volume set provides a detailed account of China’s provinces, natural history, government, religion, and customs. The observations, rooted in 18th-century sources, offer comprehensive insights into Chinese society during a period of significant European interest in Asia. Winterbotham’s work contributed to a broader understanding of Chinese culture and heritage among Western readers, establishing itself as a valuable reference for both historians and scholars in Chinese studies.

• Chinese Novels, Translated From The Originals (1822)

Sir John Francis Davis

Translated by Sir John Francis Davis, this book introduces Western audiences to classical Chinese literature through a rich tapestry of stories, proverbs, and cultural insights.  Comprising three novels by Li Yu (李漁, 1611–1680) from his collection Twelve Towers (十二樓) – including “The Shadow in the Water (合影樓)”, “The Twin Sisters (奪錦樓)”, and “The Three Dedicated Chambers (三與樓)” – the translation offers valuable perspectives on Chinese storytelling, themes, and cultural philosophies. Sir John Francis Davis, the second Governor of Hong Kong from 1844 to 1848, was also a member of the Royal Asiatic Society, a British diplomat and sinologist. His contribution is regarded as an early and significant effort to bridge Eastern and Western literary traditions, making this compilation an important resource for those engaged in the study of cross-cultural exchange in the 19th century.

Preserving History for the Future

Through digitisation, the Library has ensured that these rare books – some dating back centuries – are accessible to researchers, students, and history enthusiasts worldwide. This collection offers valuable insight into Western perceptions and interpretations of Chinese and East Asian cultures during the 18th century.

Explore the Rare Books on China & East Asia collection today via the Digital Collections Portal to discover the stories, interpretations, and histories that continue to inspire and educate across generations. Every turn of the digital page promises new insights and unexpected wonders, tracing the cultural exchanges that influenced Western understanding of China and its neighbours. Let curiosity be your guide as you explore this extraordinary archive of cultural connection.