Tang Dynasty – Printing
- Development in the Tang Era: Around 650 A.D., woodblock printing began in the early Tang era.
- Widespread Use in the Ninth Century: Started to appear more frequently in the ninth century and was used in dictionaries, almanacks, children’s books, test guides, charm manuals, and calendars, among other works.
- The Emergence of Commercial Books: Around 762 A.D., commercial book printing was underway.
- Prohibition of Private Printing (835 A.D.): In 835 A.D., private printing was outlawed as a result of the dissemination of unapproved calendars.
- Oldest Surviving manuscript: The Diamond Sutra, a 16-foot scroll with drawings and calligraphy, dates to 868 A.D. and is the oldest Tang era printed manuscript still in existence.
Tang Dynasty ( 618-907)
Tang Dynasty, which lasted from 618 to 907 AD, is regarded as the apex of both Chinese and global civilization. This historical era was marked by notable developments in technology and culture, in addition to its notable contributions to philosophy, politics, literature, and the arts.
We shall look at the salient features, historical significance, and enduring impact of the Tang Dynasty in the sections that follow.
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