Author(s)

Li Xiaolou ¹, Gao Junhan ², Xin Qing ²

Affiliation(s)

¹ Department of Conservation and Restoration,The Palace Museum, Beijing, 100006, China
² College of Elite Engineers for Cultural Heritage, Beijing Union University, Beijing, 100191, China

Corresponding Author

Gao Junhan

ABSTRACT

Papermaking, as one of China’s most influential technological inventions, laid the foundation for the development of writing, painting, printing, and cultural transmission. This study traces the historical evolution of ancient Chinese papermaking and the development of paper used for calligraphy and painting, drawing upon archaeological evidence, historical texts, and fiber analysis. From the emergence of early hemp paper in the Han dynasty and Cai Lun’s innovations, through the technical refinements of the Wei–Jin and Northern–Southern dynasties, to the large-scale production and diversification of the Sui–Tang period, Chinese papermaking underwent significant transformation. The Song–Yuan period marked the integration of papermaking with printing, leading to the expansion of bamboo and mixed-fiber papers, while the Ming–Qing period represented the zenith of craftsmanship, with numerous renowned papers achieving standardized quality. Across these stages, papermaking evolved from a utilitarian craft into an art form that embodied material, aesthetic, and cultural values. The study not only outlines the technological trajectory of papermaking but also provides a theoretical reference for the conservation and restoration of traditional paper-based artworks.

KEYWORDS

Chinese Papermaking; Traditional Handmade Paper; Calligraphy and Painting Paper; Technological Evolution; Cultural Transmission; Material Study

CITE THIS PAPER

Li Xiaolou, Gao Junhan, Xin Qing, Study on the Material Evolution of Chinese Paper-Based Calligraphy and Painting and Ancient Papermaking Techniques. Lecture Notes on History (2025) Vol. 7: 95-103. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.23977/history.2025.070115.

REFERENCES

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