Woodblock printing in Jinhua, Zhejiang province can be traced back to the Song Dynasty. [Photo/Jinhua Daily]
From design and proofreading to plate making, engraving, and final printing — each step in the woodblock printing process must be executed with the utmost care.
Skilled artisans delicately brush ink onto an engraved plate before carefully laying the paper over it. As the brush passes over, lifting the paper reveals a clear, intricate image of the engraved design and text.
This vivid scene captures the essence of woodblock printing in Jinhua, Zhejiang province. The technique, which originated in the Tang Dynasty (618-907), reached its pinnacle during the Song Dynasty (960-1279).
Jinhua's contribution to the development of publishing in ancient China is remarkable, as it was home to approximately 325 different series comprising 4,320 books from the Song Dynasty (960-1279).
Much of this is owed to the city's abundant jujube and pear wood, which are particularly well-suited for woodblock carving.
