Title: Antique Chinese Japanese Meiji Period 4 Books Set: Chinese historyDate/Period: Meiji periodA little about how these were printed. The printing method in Ja pan up to the late 1800's was through wood blocks (Hangi). An entire page of writing would be laboriously carved out of a block of wood . . . backwards. In the exact same style as the original writer. Usually someone with beautiful calligraphic writing. These wood blocks would then be used to make multiple copies.. This was the way of printing in Japan before they began to go to movable type in the late 1800's. The paper is called washi and is made from mulberry pulp. It's often called "rice paper" but this is a misnomer. No rice was harmed in it's production. The magic thing about washi is that the older the paper gets the softer it gets. Using old Japanese books is like turning the pages of a book made of fine cloth. (The paper doesn't become brittle because of the lack of acid used in the production). Woodblock prints and these old books are a reflection of an artistry that no longer exists.Reserve: $20.00Shipping:Domestic: Flat-rate of $8.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S.International: Foreign shipping rates are determined by destination. International shipping may be subject to VAT. Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.Location: This item ships from WashingtonYour purchase is protected:Photos, descriptions, and estimates were prepared with the utmost care by a fully certified expert and appraiser. All items in this sale are guaranteed authentic.In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Jasper52 specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Jasper52 within 5 days of receiving the item.