Page from the Ten Bamboo Studio Manual of Painting and Calligraphy 1633

This is a page from the Ten Bamboo Studio Manual of Painting and Calligraphy, created by Hu Zhengyan in China during the late Ming Dynasty. It showcases a technique called “douban” color printing, using multiple woodblocks to layer colors onto paper. Look closely, and you can see the subtle registration of each block; thin black lines delineating the form, with delicate pinks and greens adding depth. This wasn't just printing; it was a meticulous craft. Each block required carving by skilled hands, and each print demanded careful alignment. The Ten Bamboo Studio Manual was more than a pattern book; it was a compendium of techniques, a celebration of artistry, and a subtle assertion of status. By mastering and showcasing this complex printing method, Zhengyan elevated the status of the printer and blurred the lines between artisan and artist.